Actividades Fáciles de literatura para el Hogar o la Escuela
Aquà te compartimos algunas formas divertidas y cariñosas de apoyar las habilidades de lectura de tu hijo/a:
Cuentos con Abrazos
Acurrúquense con un libro favorito—¡aunque solo quieran mirar las imágenes! Describan lo que ven juntos. Permite que tu hijo pase las páginas. Usa voces graciosas para los personajes.
Canta y RĂe con Canciones
Canciones como “Estrellita dónde estás” o “La araña pequeñita” tienen ritmo, repeticiones y movimientos con las manos que ayudan al lenguaje y la coordinación.
¡Puedes pedir prestado un kit gratuito de evaluación ASQ!
¿Quieres saber cómo va el desarrollo de tu hijo/a? Ahora puedes pedir prestado un kit con el Cuestionario de Edades y Etapas (ASQ) en la biblioteca. Es una herramienta sencilla y amigable para las familias que ayuda a seguir el crecimiento del niño en áreas como el lenguaje, la motricidad y la resolución de problemas.
At the heart of every child’s growth is the joy of learning, and one of the best ways to support that growth is through literacy activities that are fun, loving, and tailored to each child’s unique way of learning. If you are caring for a child with developmental disabilities, you already know how special and amazing their learning journey is. Every small step matters! Whether you’re at home, in school, or visiting the library, there are so many easy and joyful ways to bring literacy into your child’s world.
What is Literacy (and Why It’s More Than Reading!)
Literacy is more than just reading books. It’s also listening to stories, looking at pictures, singing songs, learning new words, and exploring the world with curiosity. For children with developmental delays or disabilities, everyday moments can be meaningful opportunities to build language and communication skills.
Easy Literacy Activities to Try at Home or School
Here are some fun, gentle ways to support your child’s literacy skills:
Story Time Snuggles
Cuddle up with a favorite book—even if your child only wants to look at the pictures. Describe what you see together. Let them turn the pages. Use silly voices for the characters.
Sing-Along Songs & Rhymes
Songs like “Twinkle Twinkle” or “Itsy Bitsy Spider” are full of rhythm, repetition, and hand motions that help with language and motor development.
Use Picture Books or Wordless Books
Let your child make up the story based on the pictures—or you can tell one together! Books without words are wonderful for imagination.
The Library is Your Literacy Partner!
We are proud to share that the Yolo County Library, in collaboration with Yolo County Help Me Grow, is here to support your family.
Wondering how your child is doing in their development? You can check out an Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) kit from the library! It’s a simple, parent-friendly tool that helps track your child’s growth in areas like communication, motor skills, and problem-solving.
Every Child is a Story Waiting to Be Told
Every child learns in their own way, at their own pace, and that’s something to celebrate. With love, patience, and a little creativity, literacy can become a joyful part of your family’s everyday life. Sing a song, tell a story, and visit your library… you never know what adventures await!
En medio del ajetreo diario, es fácil pasar por alto esos momentos tranquilos pero significativos—y muchas veces, ahĂ es donde ocurre la verdadera magia. Leer juntos, aunque sea solo unos minutos al dĂa, puede convertirse en una de las partes más gratificantes de la rutina familiar.
Ya sea un cuento antes de dormir o una lectura acogedora por la tarde en el sofá, compartir libros con los niños pequeños va mucho más allá del aprendizaje temprano. Fortalece el desarrollo del lenguaje, estimula la imaginaciĂłn y crea un fuerte vĂnculo emocional entre padres e hijos.
¿La mejor parte? Crear un hábito de lectura en familia no tiene que ser largo ni complicado. Se trata de ser constantes y de conectar. Cuando los niños ven la lectura como una parte alegre y natural del hogar, están dando sus primeros pasos hacia el amor por los libros que puede durar toda la vida.
Leer en voz alta con tu hijo no solo le enseña palabras—le enseña a amar las palabras. Cuando los libros se convierten en parte del ritmo diario, los niños asocian las historias con momentos de consuelo, alegrĂa y seguridad. Esta base alimenta el aprendizaje a lo largo de la vida y fortalece el lazo entre padres e hijos. Además, ¡solo 10 a 15 minutos al dĂa pueden marcar una gran diferencia!
Da el ejemplo: Los niños aprenden observando. Si te ven disfrutar de los libros, querrán imitarlos.
Recomendaciones de libros para los más pequeños:
AquĂ tienes algunos tĂtulos encantadores y atractivos, ideales para los primeros lectores. Libros que invitan a las risas antes del momento de calma, despiertan curiosidad y ofrecen consuelo:
In the bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the quiet, meaningful moments but those moments are often where the magic happens. Reading together, even for just a few minutes a day, can become one of the most rewarding parts of your family’s routine.
Whether it’s a bedtime story or a snuggly afternoon read on the couch, sharing books with young children supports more than just early learning. It strengthens language development, sparks imagination, and builds a strong emotional bond between you and your child.
The good news? A family reading habit doesn’t have to be long or elaborate. It’s about consistency and connection. When children see reading as a regular, joyful part of home life, it sets the foundation for a lifelong love of books.
Why a Reading Routine Matters
Reading aloud with your child does more than teach them words—it shares a love for words. When books become part of your daily rhythm, children begin to associate stories with comfort, joy, and security. This foundation supports lifelong learning and a deeper bond between parent and child. Plus, just 10–15 minutes a day of shared reading can make a lasting difference.
Tips for Building a Reading Routine:
Set a regular time: Bedtime is a popular choice, but morning snuggles, or after-school quiet time can work just as well.
Create a reading nook: A comfy chair, a soft blanket, and a little basket of books nearby can invite children in.
Let them choose: Even if it means reading the same book for the tenth time this week, letting your child lead builds confidence and enthusiasm.
Model reading: Children learn by watching. If they see you enjoying books, they’ll want to join in too.
Book Recommendations for Young Children
Here are a few sweet and engaging titles perfect for little readers. These books that offer comfort, spark questions, and invite shaking off giggles before quiet time:
You can access more than 300,000 e-books and audiobooks available on The Palace Project, a free mobile phone app, thanks to a grant from the California State Library.
Palace Project has integrated Yolo County Library’s Overdrive, SimplyE, enki books, audiobooks, and more all in one place. Find it in the  Apple Store or Google Play
Take a look at this short intro video and learn how to use the Palace Project app.
The first day of school is a big milestone—whether it’s your child’s very first day ever, or just the first day of a brand-new grade. Read more about how to support children and yourself on our Explore Literacy/Explora Literacia Familiar page.
The first day of school is a big milestone—whether it’s your child’s very first day ever, or just the first day of a brand-new grade. Along with new backpacks, lunchboxes, and routines, children often carry something else: big emotions. Excitement, nervousness, curiosity, fear, and even sadness can swirl together in ways that are tough for young ones to explain.
As families, we can support our children through this transition by helping them understand their feelings, building excitement around learning, and—of course—turning to the power of books to guide those important conversations.
Why the First Day Feels So Big
For young children, starting school often means separating from home and caregivers for the first time. For older children, it might mean a new teacher, classmates, or a bigger workload. It’s perfectly natural for kids to feel unsure about these changes.
Understanding their emotions—and naming them—is the first step toward helping them manage those feelings. Picture books, read-aloud, and family discussions are fantastic tools for doing just that.
Helping Preschool and Kindergarten-Age Children
At this age, children may not have the words to explain how they feel. Visual stories and gentle reassurances go a long way. Establish routines before school starts—like reading a story together every night or practicing the morning routine—to help things feel more predictable.
Books to Read Together:
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
This classic tells the story of a little raccoon nervous about going to school. His mother shares a sweet secret for feeling her love all day long.
Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
Llama’s first day of preschool is full of worry and longing for Mama. A relatable, rhyming story that helps normalize separation anxiety.
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
A funny twist: the person with the jitters is the teacher! It’s a reassuring reminder that everyone feels nervous sometimes.
Supporting Elementary-Age Children
As children grow, they may be more aware of social dynamics or academic expectations. Encourage them to share their worries—whether it’s about making friends, a tricky subject, or even getting lost in the building.
Talk through potential situations and help them think through solutions. Empowering them with confidence and perspective makes a big difference.
Books for School-Age Readers:
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly is a little mouse who worries—a lot. A comforting book that helps children know they’re not alone in their anxious feelings.
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All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
A colorful, inclusive book celebrating the diverse, supportive communities that schools can be.
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The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
For kids feeling different or unsure, this beautifully written book is a celebration of finding your place.
Family Tips for Soothing First Day:
Practice together: Visit the school, meet the teacher if possible, and do a trial run of the morning routine.
Create a goodbye ritual: A special phrase, hug, or handshake can help ease transitions.
Make time to listen: After school, keep things open-ended: “What made you smile today?” or “Was anything tricky?”
Be patient: The adjustment period can take days or weeks. Expect ups and downs—and celebrate small victories.
The first day of school is the start of so many new adventures. While big emotions are a natural part of that transition, they’re also an opportunity for connection, empathy, and growth. With stories in hand and love in our hearts, we can help children feel brave, supported, and ready to take their first steps into a brand-new year.
Como familias, podemos acompañar a nuestros hijos en esta transición ayudándolos a reconocer lo que sienten, despertando el entusiasmo por aprender y, por supuesto, usando el poder de los libros para guiar esas conversaciones tan importantes.
Para los niños pequeños, comenzar la escuela muchas veces significa separarse por primera vez de casa y de sus cuidadores. Para los niños más grandes, puede significar tener un maestro nuevo, hacer amigos nuevos o enfrentarse a más tareas escolares. Es totalmente normal que sientan dudas o nervios ante estos cambios.
Ayudarlos a entender lo que sienten—y ponerle nombre a esas emociones—es el primer paso para que puedan manejarlas. Los libros ilustrados, las lecturas en voz alta y las charlas en familia son herramientas muy útiles para eso.
Apoyando a niños en edad preescolar y kindergarten
A esta edad, muchos niños aún no tienen las palabras para decir cómo se sienten. Las historias con imágenes y las palabras suaves de tranquilidad ayudan mucho. Antes de que comience la escuela, podemos establecer rutinas—como leer juntos cada noche o practicar la rutina de la mañana—para que el cambio sea más fácil.
Libros para leer en familia:
La mano que besa (The Kissing Hand) de Audrey Penn
Este libro clásico cuenta la historia de un pequeño mapache que se siente nervioso por ir a la escuela. Su mamá le comparte un tierno secreto para sentir su amor durante todo el dĂa.
Llama Llama Misses Mama de Anna Dewdney
El primer dĂa de preescolar de Llama está lleno de preocupaciĂłn y de extrañar a su mamá. Una historia rimada y tierna que ayuda a normalizar la ansiedad por separaciĂłn.
First Day Jitters de Julie Danneberg
Un giro divertido: ¡quien tiene nervios no es un estudiante, sino la maestra! Un recordatorio simpático de que todos sentimos nervios alguna vez.
Apoyando a niños en edad escolar (primaria)
Cuando los niños crecen, suelen darse más cuenta de las relaciones sociales y de lo que se espera de ellos en la escuela. AnĂmalos a compartir sus preocupaciones—ya sea por hacer amigos, por alguna materia difĂcil o por temor a perderse en la escuela.
Hablen sobre lo que podrĂa pasar y piensen juntos en soluciones. Ayudarlos a sentirse seguros y capaces marca una gran diferencia.
Libros para lectores en edad escolar:
Wemberly Worried de Kevin Henkes
Wemberly es una pequeña ratoncita que se preocupa… mucho. Un libro que consuela y que ayuda a los niños a entender que no están solos en sus emociones.
All Are Welcome de Alexandra Penfold
Un libro colorido e inclusivo que celebra comunidades escolares diversas y llenas de apoyo.
The Day You Begin de Jacqueline Woodson
Para los niños que se sienten diferentes o inseguros, esta historia bellamente escrita celebra encontrar nuestro lugar en el mundo. Consejos familiares para calmar los nervios del primer dĂa
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We acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory and homelands of the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. For more information, please go to: www.yochadehe.gov
La alfabetización es más que leer libros. También incluye escuchar cuentos, mirar imágenes, cantar canciones, aprender nuevas palabras y explorar el mundo con curiosidad. Para los niños con retrasos o discapacidades del desarrollo, los momentos cotidianos pueden convertirse en grandes oportunidades para fortalecer el lenguaje y la comunicación.
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The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
