It's the first of the month and time for a new Early Literacy Calendar from the Free Library of Philadelphia's children's librarians!

This month's calendar is once again full of fun suggestions for early literacy activities that parents, family, and caregivers can engage in with their children to help nurture and develop the necessary skills to read, emphasizing the five early literacy practices of Reading, Writing, Talking, Singing, and Playing.

Download Early Literacy Calendar for August 2013 »

We've already reached the half way point in our Online Summer Reading program and are closing in on the 20-Million-Minute goal! If you and the children in your life haven't signed up yet, there's still time, Online Summer Reading runs through August 31st. There are lots of great reading suggestions and you'll also be entered into our weekly random prize drawing!

Some other fun Early Literacy activities going on in August includeThursday storytimes at Eakins Oval and our Sundays on Stage series of cultural programs featuring live performances by a variety of artists and entertainers, celebrating diversity through music, dance, and storytelling.

Stop in at your local neighborhood library and ask a children's librarian for more tips and suggestions on Early Literacy; we're always here to help!