Shorewood Public Library - Baby's First Books

Shorewood Public Library has teamed up with the other Milwaukee County public libraries to sponsor a special reading program called “Baby's First Books." When parents and care givers sign up at the library, they will receive:

a keepsake folder to record special memories of the baby's first books, the people that read them, and the dates of the baby's first library visits
a booklist with tips for reading to a baby
a free board book after the baby's third library visit

Why Share Books? Because it . . .

Helps create a special bond between.
Introduces children to art through the illustrations.
Enhances children's listening skills.
Introduces children to a wide variety of experiences.
Helps prepare children for learning to read.
Improves and enriches the quality of children's lives.
Provides fun and enjoyment for children and adults.

How to share books?

Find a comfortable place to sit.
Recite or sing rhymes from your favorite books.
Turn off other distractions--television, radio, etc.
Hold books so your child can see the pages clearly.
Involve your child by having him or her point out objects, talk about the pictures, or repeat words.
Read with expression.
Vary the pace of your reading--slow or fast.
Have your child select books to read.
Reread your child's favorite books whenever asked.

When to share books?

Begin when your child is born.
Set aside a special time each day, such as nap time, bedtime, or after meals.
Share books when you and your child are in a relaxed mood.
Limit sharing time if your child becomes fussy or restless.
Take advantage of "waiting" times to share books--on trips, at the doctor's office, in line at the grocery store.
Soothe a child who is sick or cranky.

And remember...

Be enthusiastic about books.
Be an example for your child--let her or him see you read.
Keep a wide selection of reading materials at home.
Be aware of your child's reading interests.
Give books as presents.
Begin to build a child's home library.
Get to know your Shorewood public librarians!

Recent studies have identified reading to babies as one of the activities most beneficial to healthy brain development. Sharing books with babies has a positive effect on language development, conceptual thinking, visual and small motor skills, as well as the emotional bond between parent and child. Despite this overwhelming evidence, a recent U.S. Department of Education survey found that only 39% of parents read to their infants on a regular basis: 16% of parents never read to their infants.

Through the “BABY’S FIRST BOOKS” program, the Library hopes to provide families with the necessary materials and support so that all children may experience the long-lasting benefits of reading. We encourage parents to become familiar with the library’s many resources for families including books, videotapes, music, computers, software, and community information.