What is it?

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a reading initiative to encourage families to read to their young children. 
What's in it for me?
• A toddler's brain creates up to two million new connections every second.
• The ability to learn language skills is greatest before the age of six.
• Children who are read to at an early age are more successful in school.
• Children who are read to have bigger vocabularies when they enter school.
• A child's brain develops most rapidly before the age of three.
• One on one reading provides quality parent and child bonding time.

 Who can participate?

Children who have not yet started Kindergarten are invited to participate. The earlier you begin, the more time you have to finish.  

How do I start?

• Create an account online or download the Beanstack app on your smartphone to get started. Choose the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge. 
• Read any books your child is interested in. Need some suggestions? Just ask a Library staff member!
• Log your books in Beanstack.

What happens when you read 1,000 books?

Besides being exposed to amazing stories, characters, and authors, and having a sense of accomplishment, all those who complete 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten will receive a certificate and a coupon for the entire family to celebrate with a treat from Dairy Queen (up to four treats). 

Is there anything else? Yes! 

Participants can only complete the program one time. Books that are read more than once still count (repetition is important for young children). You may not enter books that you have already read. Only books that you have finished after your registration date can be recorded.