Literacy Support
Early Literacy Development and Support
Recognizing our role in early literacy development, we plan our storytimes to incorporate at least one of the Six Early Literacy Skills each week. The six skills are print motivation, print awareness, letter knowledge, vocabulary, phonological awareness, and narrative skills. These are essential foundational skills to help children become strong readers.
Early Literacy Stations
The Children’s Department has two Early Literacy Stations (ELS) loaded with more than forty-five educational software titles for kids ages 2-10. Children may use one of these computers for 30 minutes each day. The Early Literacy Stations offer children a safe, standalone computer not connected to the internet. It is age-appropriate, engaging, and academically relevant for children. The ELS has a colorful keyboard and tiny mouse to promote easy learning and discovery.
The education software covers seven curricular areas: reading, math, science, social studies, writing, arts and music, and reference. The system is designed to attract and educate toddlers through early elementary school ages. We have one English language computer and one bilingual Spanish computer.
The Friends of the Welles-Turner Memorial Library generously donated these computers.
Books for Babies
We welcome new Glastonbury babies with a gift. Please stop by the Children’s Desk to introduce us to your future reader and pick up their “Books for Babies” packet. Thank you to the Friends of the Library for their support of this program.
Outreach
“Reach Out For Reading” is a special outreach program that brings storytimes to children in local daycare centers and preschools.
School Visits and Group Tours
During the school year our Children’s Librarians welcome classes from Glastonbury elementary schools for a storytime and tour.
With at least one week’s notice, our Children’s Librarians can schedule and present a short program and library tour for scout groups, preschools, and daycares. Please call or email for further information.
Homeschool Support
The Educate Station team is committed to inspiring joyful learning and supporting kids, teachers, and parents. Their content is created by a team of experienced and passionate educators from across the United States. Their educators bring vast subject-matter expertise, teaching credentials, and many years of experience as classroom teachers and curriculum developers. Through the content they create, they aim to provide ready-to-use, hands-on activities for kids to do at home or at school.