Children need to acquire pre-reading skills to learn to read. These skills are part of emergent literacy - defined as what a child needs to know before he or she can learn to read. Read more about "pre-reading" skills."

Download a parent handout on pre-reading skills

Other Literacy Resources
Maine and our nation are rich with resources to help parents and caregivers raise healthy children who enjoy books.

  • Maine Libraries have wonderful children's books. Many also have regular
    story hours that you can enjoy with your child. Be sure to take advantage of these FREE services.

Family literacy programs help families become more familiar with books and literacy resources in their community.

There are many national resources that can help parents and caregivers learn more about what is going on nationally in the field of literacy. Some of these links will help you learn more ways to use books with children and about keeping them healthy overall.

  • For Adults who want help with reading, or who wish to further their own education can participate in adult education programs by calling The Maine Adult Learning Hotline (800) 322-5455.

Reading Tips Sheets in Other Languages
Raising Readers | P.O. Box 17826 | Portland, Maine 04112 | Phone: 1-800-397-3263
Libra Foundation