Early Childhood Resources

Teacher Collections

If you would like a librarian to gather a collection of books for you, please contact us through the Children's Services Department Manager or fill out a Collection Request Form for the branch you want to pick up the materials. Please submit your request at least one week before the desired pick-up date to allow our librarians sufficient time to gather materials.

Early Literacy at JCPL

Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they actually learn to read and write. It is not teaching reading, drilling or using flashcards. Instead, it is laying the foundation, so that your child has the necessary skills when they are developmentally ready to read.

Little Learners Play Kit

Little Learner Kits support your baby’s growth and development. There is a kit for newborns to 24 months which includes books and toys designed for each group.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a library program that encourages all families and caregivers to read at least 1,000 books to their children before entering kindergarten.

Be Ready for Kindergarten

February 1-August 1: Upcoming Kindergarteners are encouraged to pick up a Kindergarten Readiness Bag at any branch.

Book Recommendations

Great Books for Kids of All Ages

Our children's librarians have identified great books from our collection for every reading level and shared them here.

TumbleBooks

The Tumble Book Library is an online collection of animated talking picture books, which teach kids the joy of reading in a format they love.

LOTE4Kids

LOTE4Kids is our online database of digital books in World Languages, that allows kids to enjoy the magic of books in LOTE (Languages Other Than English). Each book also comes with English translations to help kids learn language.

Storytime Programs at Branches

Attend storytimes for Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, or the whole Families at a branch near you.

ABCMouse.com

The award-winning ABCmouse curriculum is designed to help young children (ages 2-8+) build a strong foundation for future academic success. Now available at home with your library card and may be shared by up to three children in a household.

Beyond the Library Resources

Indiana Department of Education Early Learning

Indiana’s Early Learning Standards are a developmental continuum and align to the 2023 Indiana Academic Standards. The standards provide core elements that children should achieve from birth to age five to be ready for future success. The site provides a list of resources for Early Childhood Educators and Administrators.

Family and Social Services Administration Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning

Provides information on becoming a Child Care Provider, Paths to Quality, Provider Resources, Early Childcare and Education Legislative Changes, and more.

Brighter Futures Indiana

This site supports the unique and critical responsibilities of programs and providers, as well as, serving up important information for engaged community partners.