IMAGINATION LIBRARY SUCCESS
Enhancing the benefits of reading doesn't require high-tech tools or specialized programs like infant massage. Numerous studies have shown the simple yet profound impact of spending time reading. Nationally, 61 percent of low-income families don’t have any books for their children at home. In rural Northern California, this percentage could be even higher, but Imagination Library is working to change that. In Tehama County, as we highlighted last year, local children ages 0-5 can receive 12 FREE books delivered to their homes each year through the Tehama County Imagination Library. Research shows that even without teaching specific reading techniques to parents, simply providing books can increase reading habits (Thakur et al., 2016) and improve story comprehension (Knauer et al., 2019).
In FY 2023-24, 428 children from Tehama County were enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Of these, nearly two-thirds (64%) were between the ages of 0-2, while 36% were ages 3-4. One of the program's key strengths is its accessibility across the county. While over half of the children lived in Red Bluff (52%, 96080) and 29% in Corning (96021), 19% lived in other, more rural zip codes, demonstrating how the “books by mail” model effectively reaches families in less populated areas. If you haven't signed up yet, or know someone who might benefit, consider sharing the opportunity: https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/CATEHAMA/.
Parents have expressed that the value of receiving a monthly book goes beyond the physical item; it fosters meaningful interactions between parent and child, creating special moments spent reading together. One parent shared that the program "makes the girls feel special," while another highlighted "pasar tiempo de calidad con mi niña" (spending quality time with my daughter). This love for reading, nurtured from a very young age—even before preschool—helps lay a foundation for lifelong learning and bonding.
One parent beautifully expressed about the Imagination Library Program, "the benefit of time spent with books goes far beyond the material acquisition of the book." |
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SUPPORT EARLY READERS FOR PARENTS
Through a partnership between Expect More Tehama and First 5 Tehama, parents can boost their confidence and understanding in fostering early literacy skills. This five-week program, "How to Support Early Readers for Parents," is designed for families with children in TK (4-year-olds) through 2nd grade (7/8-year-olds). The focus is on building reading fluency and comprehension before third grade, a critical milestone in a child's academic journey. The program offers hands-on materials and creative strategies for incorporating literacy into daily routines without requiring extra time. It also connects parents with a supportive cohort of others on the same journey.
“Reading well provides countless lifelong benefits,” says Kathy Garcia, Director of Expect More Tehama. “We’re excited to offer this added support for students at home.”
Classes began last week and will be held every other Tuesday evening from 5:30-7 pm at the Red Bluff branch of the Tehama County Library. Even if you can’t attend every session, we encourage you to sign up and learn what you can—every bit of confidence you gain can be passed on to your child. We invite you to join us at the next session on Tuesday, September 25th. Register with us today - CLICK HERE.
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As we welcome the crisp fall air and those cozy moments wrapped in a blanket, we encourage you to take the time time to embrace the small opportunities for conversation and reading with your little ones. These shared moments, whether through storytelling or simply turning pages together, foster learning and connection that will last a lifetime. |
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Positive Parenting Classes return to Red Bluff this October, and they even include childcare—making it a win-win for families! Sign up for this helpful 8-week course today (CLICK HERE).
Looking for new ways to support early readers? We’re here to help! Fill out this form HERE to receive tailored information and tips for your child’s age and needs.
If you haven't completed our Ages & Stages Questionnaire, we encourage you to do so. Available in English and Spanish, this tool is a great way to gain insights and access additional support and interventions if needed.
ENGLISH - CLICK HERE
SPANISH - CLICK HERE
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