1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a national initiative that focuses on fostering strong early literacy skills in children, beginning at birth, by encouraging caregivers to read one thousand books to their child by the time they enter kindergarten. This challenge is for caregivers of early learners, ages birth to six, who are Orange County residents.

Getting Started:

Caregivers may participate virtually by registering for the OCLS 1000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge today.

Paper Reading Tracker:

They may also track their reading progress using a printable, paper reading tracker. Please turn in the completed reading trackers to an OCLS staff member at any OCLS Branch.

Rules:

Prizes will be mailed to the address associated with the customer’s library card. 

*Rewards are only provided to OCLS juvenile cardholders (0–6 years) with a regular, property owner or fee card in good standing. Limit one reward per badge, per person, while supplies last. The current prize selection contains items donated by The Walt Disney Company and funded by an award from the Mark Cuban Foundation. 

Upcoming Events

Mindful Play Learning: Yoga for Preschoolers

Registration Required
Tuesday April 29 10:15am

Eatonville Branch (Eatonville - Meeting Room)

Event Categories: Health & Wellness

Each session is themed and playfully uses yoga and imagination to teach early learners social-emotional skills, support cognitive development and enhance creativity. Recommended for ages 3–5.

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Splash, Leap, and Waddle: Life by a Pond

Registration Required
Tuesday April 29 10:30am

Winter Garden Branch (Winter Garden - Program Area)

Event Categories: Animals & Pets; Arts & Crafting

Through captivating stories, crafts, and activities, children will discover the fascinating lives of frogs, fish, ducks, and other pond dwellers. Recommended for ages 3-5.

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Countdown to Kindergarten

Play with Your Food

Registration Required
Tuesday April 29 10:30am

South Creek Branch (South Creek - Meeting Room 1)

Event Categories: Arts & Crafting; Education & Learning

Who says you can’t play with your food? Strengthen important early literacy skills through food-themed stories, activities and a craft. Recommended for ages 4-5.

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More Early Learning Events >