NYC’s Best Independent Bookstores for Kids

by Yuliya GeikhmanDecember 7, 2020

Schools back in session and it’s time to hit the books! Do it right at one of our favorite kid-friendly independent bookstores in NYC where the littles ones (and their parents!) can stock up, hang out, or spend a cozy rainy afternoon. Whether it’s for the awesome selection in the stacks or the popping children’s events, these NYC bookstores are the place to be for budding bibliophiles! Find the NYC kids bookstore for your family below!

Bank Street Bookstore

Are you looking for that one children's book from your own childhood that you sort of know the color of the cover for but not much else? This bookstore can help you find it. The staff here are touted by visitors as being extremely knowledgeable and helpful for finding any children's book you need.

Bank Street Bookstore is specifically intended for kids. On the shelves, you'll find many classics and popular books of today, but you may also snag a locally written or indie gem you might not find elsewhere. On most Saturdays, you can come in and listen to a children's author read their own books for storytime, and lead the young audience in a themed activity.

2780 Broadway
Manhattan Valley
212-678-1654
Online: bankstreetbooks.com

Books Are Magic

This quaint independent bookshop in Cobble Hill is a sanctuary for book lovers young and old. Along with a vast selection of children's books, the shop has a little nook for relaxing with a book as well as many chances to hear your favorite authors reading their books at storytime. Books are carefully selected and displayed in a way that encourages kids to pick up a tome they might not otherwise even see (like a cookbook). Its calm and quiet vibes make this a, well, magical place to stop by and find your new favorite book. Plus, the store is open every day!

225 Smith St.
Cobble Hill
718-246-0200
Online: booksaremagic.net

Book Culture

Book Culture has four stores in New York City—three on the Upper West Side, and one in Long Island city, Queens. (The Queens location's entire bottom floor is dedicated to kids books, games and toys.) The bookstore offers a robust schedule of programming at its shops; examples include musical storytimes, Mozart for Munchkins, TocToc Spanish Class, music with Hopalong Andrew, and storytimes in English, German and Spanish. The store is also a great place to pick up fun and funky gift items. Book Culture is raising money to get them over a financial hump and keep its doors open, with the goal of profitability in 2020. They deserve your support!

26-09 Jackson Ave.
718-440-3120
Long Island City
Online: bookculture.com

536 W. 112th St.
Upper West Side
212-865-1588

2915 Broadway
Upper West Side
646-403-3000

450 Columbus Ave.
212-595-1962

Books of Wonder

Books of Wonder proudly declares itself to be NYC's largest independent bookstore and the city's "leading specialist in children's literature," and the stacks are, well, stacked with tons of children's literature. Besides having a large and well-kept children's books section, this bookstore is a hotspot for family-friendly events, author readings, launch parties, and more. Especially worth noting are the regularly held panels, for various ages and covering many different topics, which feature groups of authors talking about their work and taking questions from the audience — a potentially excellent inspiration for kids who are showing an interest in writing or illustrating their own works of art.

217 West 84th St.
Upper West Side
212-989-1804

18 West 18th St.
Flatiron District
212-989-3270

Online: booksofwonder.com

La Librairie des Enfants

This little Upper East Side French bookstore for kids just oozes charm. (Customers report feeling transported to Paris when they step inside.) Head here for classics and new titles for kids in French, as well as games. The store hosts Petites Histoires, a thematic reading program in which kids learn French through stories, songs, crafts and play. Additionally French marionette shows will be coming to the store soon. (Adults can learn French here, too!) You can read our full feature from when they opened, here!

163 E. 92nd St.
646-590-2797
Upper East Side
Online: lalibrairiedesenfants.nyc

Greenlight Bookstore

The Greenlight Bookstore has everything you'd expect from a great bookstore: Excellent selection (though listed at jacket prices — no savings to be found here), regularly scheduled staff and author storytimes, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. In addition to all that, though, Greenlight has a few special offerings to make it stand out among the rest.

Children ages 9-12 are welcome to join the Greenlight Young Readers Book Group with or without their parents, which meets once a month to discuss the book of the month (which is always on sale at 15% off), eat pizza, and make literary friends. Additionally, Greenlight is a partner of BAM, which means that in addition to 15% off for BAM members, you can also snag some BAM merch through Greenlight's kiosks on-site at the Academy. It also means that the bookstore often hosts events in collaboration with BAM, like author talks and music-infused book readings, on stage. Keep an eye on the events page for kid-friendly BAM performances!

686 Fulton St.
Ft. Greene
718-246-0200
Online: greenlightbookstore.com

and

632 Flatbush Ave.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens

Powerhouse on 8th

From the same minds behind the home to book happenings in DUMBO, The Powerhouse Arena, Powerhouse on 8th is a cozy store that curates not only an excellent collection on titles for kids and young readers, but an event calendar as well. Storytimes and author appearances are common; you can check out what's coming up here.

1118 8th Ave.
South Slope
718-801-8375
Online: powerhouseon8th.com

Strand Bookstore

You might already love this bookstore — now you can give your children a reason to love it, too. The large bookstore stocks an eclectic selection of books, many of which can be purchased at a discounted price. Visit the space for Family Hour, which includes storytime and readings for kids on Saturdays and some Sundays. You can also find plenty of old and new children's books here, as well as perfect gifts for book lovers like plushies and quirky toys themed around reading and learning.

828 Broadway at 12th St.
Greenwich Village
212-473-1452
Online: strandbooks.com

Astoria Bookshop

This charming bookstore in the heart of Astoria is a welcoming place for families to browse and relax together. It hosts Thursday storytimes (you can even volunteer to read for storytime, if you want!), as well as unique events like chess lessons for 3-year-olds and a young adult reading book club (which offers 10% off on the month's book).

Many of its other events not specifically created for children are still welcoming to the whole family. Get the whole family in on the 2019 reading BINGO challenge!

31-29 31st St.
Astoria
718-278-2665
Online: astoriabookshop.com

Every Thing Goes Book Cafe and Neighborhood Stage

Used books, events, and whimsy abound in this Staten Island location. This bookstore also sells coffee, chocolate, as well as records and DVDs, and hosts art and performances in its indoor and outdoor patio space. The space is small and selection is limited but the whole family can enjoy a trip to sip a hot beverage and browse the used books as live music plays.

208 Bay St.
Staten Island
718-447-8256
Online: etgstores.com

—Yuliya Geikhman

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Harry Potter Fans Can Visit Diagon Alley with New Set from LEGO

by Jennifer SwartvagherAugust 31, 2020

You won’t even need Floo powder to get to Diagon Alley. Harry Potter fans will be transported to the most magical shopping street in the world. Now you can build and create the iconic street in your own home.

Diagon Alley is where Harry Potter gets his first glimpse of the wizarding world as Hagrid guides him through the shops. This new LEGO set brings the two worlds together in a magical hybrid, a rich and versatile display model, with a modularity aspect that allows fans to choose how to display the shops. You can choose to set them up all in a row, swap them around, or even place individual shops on different shelves.

Measuring more than a meter wide and made up of 5,544 pieces, LEGO Diagon Alley features the famed wizarding world shops packed with authentic details from the movies to truly capture the ambience of the street.

Behind magnificent and detailed storefronts lie intriguing interiors, fascinating features and familiar characters. Fans can recreate some of their favourite moments from the Harry Potter film series including; discovering the wands at Ollivanders from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone dropping in on Gilderoy Lockhart’s book-signing event at Flourish & Blotts bookstore from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets; or obtaining a love potion from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Marcos Bessa, LEGO Harry Potter Design Lead, commented: “I love how faithful the final design is to the architectural details in the film. You can barely see some of these buildings zooming past your screen, but we tracked down different photographs from the sets – some of them from nearly 20 years ago – to make sure everything is spot on. Diagon Alley is the biggest set I’ve designed to-date and I am really proud of how it has come together.”

The set also includes 14 minifigures, including new versions of lead characters Harry, Ron, Hermione and of course George and Fred Weasley who have their own joke shop in Diagon Alley. There are also minifigures of Florean Fortescue and the Daily Prophet photographer, who have never been seen in LEGO form before.

The LEGO Harry Potter Diagon Alley set is available directly from LEGO Stores and www.LEGO.com/EnterTheMagic from Sept. 1, 2020. It retails for $399.99.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of LEGO

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Here’s How to Get Your Kids to Play on Their Own (for Long Stretches!)

By Meghan Fitzgerald

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

August 5, 2020

Photo: Tinkergarten

Whether we’re trying to get things done around the house, join a work meeting, or just catch our breath, parents all need ways to keep our kids engaged during the day. And, it goes without saying, we’d love it if whatever keeps them busy also helps them learn and thrive.

What’s the Solution? Independent Play.

We’ve all seen glimpses of it. You notice it’s been quiet in the other room for a while, you peek in and your child is totally immersed and “in the flow” of play. And it’s magical. It’s in those moments that kids are doing their best learning. They are feeling happy. They are engaged in what’s interesting to them, and they are developing skills like persistence, creativity, and problem-solving. That’s the good stuff—independent play.

What if you and your kids don’t just have to stumble into those magical moments, but you could actually make them happen every day? You don’t have to be a trained teacher to help your kids learn to play on their own. And, you don’t even need to have the ideas! You just may need some help to get started.

How? Independent Play Training!

There are whole sections of the bookstore dedicated to “no-stress” sleep training and “quick and easy” potty-training, but most parents and caregivers don’t know that there’s a third type of training that’s just as essential. Tinkergarten’s Independent Play Training video series will take you step-by-step through the process of getting kids ready to play on their own.

Watch: Lesson 1: Setting Up a Space For Play and see how you can set up the following play stations that will your kids to play independently like mud kitchens, art centers, and water playgrounds.

Then, take 20 minutes and, using what you learned in the video, set up your own space for play. We guarantee you’ll get hours (if not days!) of independent play in your life.

What next?

Read more about how to set up play centers for your family, including a mud kitchen, art center or water playground. They work indoors, too!
See some play centers that families across the country have put together using just what they had on hand.

This post originally appeared on Tinkergarten.

Meghan Fitzgerald

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

After 18 years as an educator, curriculum developer and school leader, Meghan has her dream gig—an entrepreneur/educator/mom who helps families everywhere, including hers, learn outside. Today, Meghan serves as co-founder and Chief Learning Officer of Tinkergarten, the national leader in outdoor play-based learning.

Barnes & Noble Launches National Children’s Short Story Contest

by Jennifer SwartvagherJune 5, 2020

Do you have a budding novelist at home? Barnes & Noble, Inc. is pleased to announce its first National Children’s Short Story Contest for young storytellers and promising wordsmiths!

Barnes & Noble is calling on children ages 6-12 to share their original short stories for a chance to be published in a book, as well as receive a signed edition book from bestselling author Gail Carson Levine.

“We believe in the power of stories to inspire and bring joy, particularly in challenging times such as the one we’re living in now,” said Jackie De Leo, Vice President and General Merchandise Manager of Bookstore at Barnes & Noble. “Our Children’s Short Story Contest was created to be a fun and motivating outlet for young writers to share their work. We can’t wait to see the submissions, and although we can’t share all of them, we’re looking forward to publishing some budding authors in a book to be showcased by Barnes & Noble.”

Parents or legal guardians can submit the work on the Barnes & Noble website. Fifteen select entrants will be published in a book sold exclusively at Barnes & Noble this holiday season, with proceeds going to charity.

photo: klimkin via Pixabay

The 15 winners and 15 runners-up will also get a signed book from bestselling author Gail Carson Levine, who will be writing a forward to the published book. Both groups will also have the chance to be featured on Barnes & Noble’s social channels

“We’re so thrilled to be partnering with Gail Carson Levine on this project as she is an author and writing teacher who shows kids, and all of us, the magic of stories and storytelling,” De Leo said.

Guidelines for submission are:

Parents or legal guardians can submit an original written or graphic short story on behalf of children ages 6 to 12 from Apr. 27 through Aug. 31 on the Barnes & Noble website.
Entries should include the parent or legal guardian’s name, email, and address. Only the child’s first name and age should be provided with your entry.
The work must be an original written or graphic story.
Suggested word count is 300 to 800 words or four pages of a graphic story (black & white).

—Jennifer Swartvagher

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Toys, Books & Art Kits To-Go! Local Stores Offering Curbside Pick-Up & Delivery

by Nikki WalshMay 3, 2020

No doubt your little quarantine buddy’s rotation of toys is getting a bit played out after all this time spent at home. Liven things up with some new toys, books and art projects for kids, while also helping support local businesses. We’ve got the best kids entertainment and toy recommendations from Geppetto’s Toys, a must-read from Warwick’s bookstore, top picks from San Diego’s coolest family-owned toy boutiques, and a few art studios offering to-go kits for kids. Read on for where to access the fun via curbside pick-up or delivery to your door!

Geppetto’s Toys

Keep ‘em busy! For over 40 years Geppetto’s Toys has been providing unique toys for San Diego kids. To order toys for your kiddos, you can go online or call your local store. Your goodies can be delivered (via ordering online) or you can stop-by for curbside pick-up.

Geppetto's Toys' owner Brian Miller said parents are welcome to call ahead so their Toy Experts can customize boxes for families for pick-up. Call 760-632-1107 for this service.

Here are some of Brian Miller's recommendations for fun toys to bring home:

Genius Square $24.99
Fun, FAST, and Challenging! Grab a grid, roll the dice to see where to put the blockers (there are 62,208 possibilities!), and race to fill the open spaces with game pieces. It reinforces spatial reasoning, logic, and critical thinking skills. For 1-2 players. For ages 6 yrs-adult, from Mukikim.

Ultra Glow Air Power Soccer Disk $19.99
It floats and hovers on a cushion of air, with a built-in "electric colors" LED light show that never burns out! A lively and fun combination of soccer and air hockey that develops coordination and cooperative play. The soft outer rim is furniture friendly and gives amazing rebound! Requires 4 AA batteries. For ages 6 yrs-teen, from Toysmith.

Pencil Nose $24.99
Those with a nose for drawing will sniff out this hilarious party game. Just picture drawing a trout with your snout, while others try to guess what it is–with time ticking. Rollicking fun every time. For ages 8 yrs-adult, from Fat Brain Toys.

Hey Clay Animals $17.99
Even beginners can make impressive "claymates!" Why? Because the kid-friendly app (the access code is in the box) shows you every little step. 18 cans of light, flexible, non-sticky, non-toxic, colorful clay air-dries to permanent status. For ages 3 yrs-teen, from Fat Brain Toys.

Glow in the Dark Rock Painting Kit $15.99
Make someone smile when they find a treasure in the dark! Special glow paints turn these real river rocks into works of art. For ages 6-12 yrs, from Faber-Castell.

Order by phone for curbside pick-up, or order online via website:

Locations with curbside pickup. Available Mon.-Hours., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Forum, Carlsbad: 760-632- 1107
Del Mar Highlands: 858-755-2100
4S Commons: 858- 674- 9990
La Jolla on Girard: 858-456-4441
Coronado: 619-522-0918

Online: geppettostoys.com

Delivery notes: For online orders placed on weekend, the order will be ready to ship the first weekday.

Warwick's

Help support the country's oldest family-owned and operated bookstore, located right here in La Jolla. Their collection is extensive and all-encompassing so you're sure to find a great read for all the bookworms in your brood. One of Warwick's top picks for young readers is the topically relevant book The Hero Next Door. This collection of short stories explores acts of bravery and features some of the best known children's authors, including R. J. Palacio (Wonder), Rita Williams-Garcia (One Crazy Summer), Linda Sue Park (A Long Walk to Water), and many more.

Order online: Warwick's is currently processing web and phone orders Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Delivery notes: Phone or online orders may either be delivered, free of charge, in La Jolla or shipped via $2.50 flat rate shipping for books only.

Online: warwicks.com

Hot Spot Studio

Curbside pick-up! Inspire little Picassos to paint and create with Hot Spot Studio's To-Go pottery kits. What’s more, you can customize with paint colors, items and more. From dragon cups to teddy bears there’s tons to choose from––and prices range from $15-$46. If you want to join in the creativity, you can order the Kids & Adults Value Kit with 4 projects for $40. So call or email to schedule your order today.

Order by phone or email for curbside pickup: 858-312-1019 or thehotspotdelsur@gmail.com

Curbside pickup at 16445 Paseo Del Sur #135, San Diego, CA, 92127
Hours, Tues. & Thurs., Noon-4 p.m.

Online: thehotspotstudio.com

DIESEL, A Bookstore

Support DIESEL, A Bookstore located at Del Mar Highlands by ordering ebooks through their website. One recommended series for half-pints ages 6-9 years-old is Nate the Great. Can Nate solve the case for his friend Annie? Perfect for beginning readers to follow Nate on his detective adventures.

DIESEL, A Bookstore has a large selection of books to entertain every age, from parents to young ones. They are available for easy online ordering and their book experts are available Mon.-Sat. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for front door pick-up and special orders.

Don't miss live storytime with DIESEL on Apr. 23 at 10:30 a.m.!

12843 El Camino Real Suite 104
San Diego, CA 92130
858-925-7078
Online: dieselbookstore.com

$5.99 per ebook
Order online: dieselbookstore.com/kobo-ereader

Color Me Mine

Get ‘em happy painting the day away! Color Me Mine is offering same day delivery of their To-Go Kits, so you can have fun delivered right to your door. Popular items right now are unicorns, the Porsche car bank and the tic-tac-toe set. To-Go Kits come with brushes, pottery and paint and you can select 6 colors for each item you choose.

$25 and up
Order online for same-day delivery: ranchobernardo.colormemine.com/to-go-kits-available
Online: ranchobernardo.colormemine.com
Delivery Details: If you order by 1 p.m. they will deliver to you by 5 p.m that day. Pick 6 paint colors per item. There is a $10 fee per delivery.

Sandcastle Tales

Help keep Sandcastle Tales afloat during the Covid-19 closure by ordering some adorable toys and books from this sweet, mom-owned boutique. Shop online for toys and books to be shipped to your home. We love their Dino Island creative dough set that lets littles have fun making dinosaur and tree molds and using crayons and coloring pages. The set includes a modeling tool, play mat, four tubs of modeling dough, five dinosaur molds, three tree molds, six crayons, and three coloring pages. It's all that you need to keep your kids entertained. Recommended for kids age 3 and up, $25.

Order Online: sandcastletales.com

Magical Child

Pretend play at its finest! Your little SoCal foodies will love playing with this toy Taco Van from local, family-owned and operated toy shop Magical Child. Magical Child has a wealth of amazing toys, plushies, books and apparel you'll love perusing. You can either pick-up their timeless, classic and entertaining toys curbside at the store in Encinitas or have them shipped to your door.

Taco Van, $17
Order by phone, Facebook or online. Delivery to your door, curbside pick-up or via online.
937 S Coast Hwy 101
Encinitas, CA 92024
760-633-1326

Online: magicalchild.com

Delivery notes: Magical Child is offering personal shopping via phone and FaceTime with curbside pick-up. Call or message for details.

A Colorful Universe

Paint and pottery! Your littles will love painting A Colorful Universe’s party animals. You can buy kits for curbside pick-up or delivery. They include your choice of pottery.

Order online for curbside pick-up or delivery:

Curbside pick-up at 1523 San Elijo Rd. #106, San Marcos, CA 92078.
Hours, Mon., Weds., Fri. from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Delivery to San Marcos, Encinitas, Carlsbad. Mon., Weds. Fri. Noon-4 p.m.

Order Online: acolorfuluniverse.com

Delivery notes: Check A Colorful Universe's website here for instructions on how to place an order for either curbside pick-up or home delivery.

–Nikki Walsh

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6 Great Bookstores Where $1 Books Are the Norm

by jen arrowJanuary 25, 2020

Do your little ones love books? Do you love what books do for your kids, but hate the $18 price tag on a brand-new hardback picture book? Well, fret no more. If you want to build up your home library of children’s books hit one of the new used book emporiums that have recently popped up around the Southland. Even as new bookstores have closed, these used bookshops have flourished, so take advantage of their bargain prices and build up your book stockpile today!

The Last Bookstore, Downtown
This used bookstore is a good reason to make a visit downtown. The store’s sophisticated buyers stock lots of film, art and language books, but you’ll also find a fair helping of children’s books. The well-curated children’s collection on the main floor covers all age ranges and interests and tends to be in excellent condition. If you’re a pure bargain hunter, head up to the loft, where the funkier inventory is all priced at $1!

Why You’ll Love It: The space is as much a steam-punk art exhibit as it is a bookstore, and the location in a refurbished bank is complete with authentic vault and vintage tile floor.

453 South Spring St.
Los Angeles

Online: lastbookstorela .com

BOOKOFF, Torrance
This fantastic chain buys and sells every kind of media you can imagine: DVDs, CDs, video games, manga and yes, books! Of the several SoCal locations, the Torrance store in the Del Amo Fashion Center has the biggest collection of English-language books; other BOOKOFF locations specialize in Japanese-language materials. One side of the children’s book aisle has higher-end hardbacks; most of the $1 books are on the other side and they tend to be paperback storybooks (Scholastic editions, etc.). If you head to this location, park near the JoAnn’s Fabrics storefront for the shortest walk through the mall. Note for bargain-hunters: Don’t forget to sift through the pull-out bins below the shelves for hidden goodies.

Why You’ll Love It: Incredibly clean and well-organized, with great customer service, you’ll barely notice this store is selling used goods.

Del Amo Fashion Center
Lower Level #290
21712 Hawthorne Blvd.
Torrance

Online: bookoffusa .com

Piccolo’s Books, Westchester & Long Beach
This chain of used bookstores has taken over former Borders locations and filled them to the brim with used books that are all $1 each. The selection is huge and organization can be chaotic at best, so plan to dedicate a substantial amount of time to your treasure hunting.

Why You’ll Love It: The inventory moves quickly and they’re always restocking, so you’ll find surprises and treats every time you visit. We’ve spotted everything from vintage DeLuxe Golden Books from the 1950s to recent Mo Willems releases.

Piccolo’s Books
Howard Hughes Center
6081 Center Dr.
Los Angeles

The Pike at Rainbow Harbor
101 S. Pine Ave.
Long Beach

Online: piccolosbooks.com

$10 or Less Bookstore, Northridge
This store actually specializes in what are called remaindered books, most of which are priced at closer to $5 than $1. However, they do also offer used books and they do have a selection of $1 titles. The selection is not as vast as at some shops listed here, but the quality of the inventory and the overall charm of the store make up for the limited choice.

Why You’ll Love It: The remaindered inventory offers a great array of gift-quality books. If you’re stocking up for birthday gifts, be sure to include this place on your shopping circuit.

19500 Plummer St.
Northridge

Online: 10-dollar-bookstore.com

Dollar Book Fair, Cerritos
Most of this chain’s locations are a bit of a drive (the nearest one to us is in Cerritos) but Dollar Book Fair is worth a look if you’re in the vicinity and you want to restock your kid’s bookshelves. Seemingly less atmospheric than some of the other options, Dollar Book Fair is a no-nonsense used bookstore with very reasonable prices.

239 Los Cerritos Center
Cerritos

Online: dollarbookfair .com

Library Book Sales, Multiple Locations
As dedicated book hunters know, library book sales are some of the best ways to develop your own library, all while supporting a good cause. If you’re ready to branch out (pun intended) from your usual locations, register at booksalefinder .com to get a weekly email newsletter listing the locations of upcoming library book sales near your zip code.

Online: booksalefinder .com

Do you have a used bookstore or thrift store where you love to browse the shelves? Where do you like to shop for new children’s books?

(We wholeheartedly recommend Children ’s Book World in West Los Angeles and San Marino Toy & Book Shoppe on the Eastside!) Share your faves in the comments!

— Jennifer Arrow

photo credit: photogramma1 via flickr, Lars Plougmann via flickr, and John-Morgan via flickr

How to Encourage Your Kids to Read at Home

By Alesia Netuk

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

November 20, 2019

Photo: Josh Applegate on Unsplash

For some children, reading is a favorite pastime that they can spend hours doing. Visiting the library or bookstore is an opportunity to find new books to get excited about. For other children, reading is not an activity they willingly choose to do during their spare time. It can become a source of contention in some households. To help curb the battles over reading, consider a few important points.

It is essential that children are provided with reading materials that are an appropriate level. Trying to read a book that is too difficult can be a very frustrating experience! Very young children may be at a stage where reading is a shared experience, either with you reading aloud to them or the two of you taking turns chiming in during a familiar book. This time spent reading together is valuable and is a precursor to independent reading.

As children become more proficient readers, it continues to be important that they are provided with texts that are an appropriate level. Children pass through different stages as they become more skilled readers. For books children are reading at home, it is beneficial that they err on the side of “too easy” versus “too hard.” While educators will conduct guided reading sessions with their students aimed at their instructional level, reading at home should be more fun, easygoing activity. Reading at home provides opportunities for children to work on their fluency and to develop a love of reading.

Keep in mind that reading can involve many different types of texts. Young readers may enjoy simple, patterned stories or books with rhyming words. CVC words are a great way for young children to start learning how to rhyme, using words with common spelling patterns. Beginning readers may also enjoy wordless books, which are filled with pictures that tell a story and encourage many early reading behaviors.

As children grow in their reading proficiency, there are many more types of texts that may pique their interest. Visit the library or bookstore so your child can see all the options that are available. While some children may love more traditional novels, others may prefer graphic novels and comic books. Some children may find a magazine that they love to read. Some may love using an e-reader. Joke books may spark your child’s interest. Proficient readers may find a website or blog they are interested in. Keep an open mind and think beyond traditional books when you’re trying to spark an interest in reading. If your little one likes to read the list when you’re at the grocery store together, that counts as reading, too!

To encourage reading at home, it may be helpful to set up a consistent routine with your child. There may be a time during the day, such as before dinner or right before bedtime when it’s most convenient to read. It may also be helpful to have a specific area in the house where your child reads. For some, this could be curled up in the bed where it’s quiet and peaceful. For others, sitting at the kitchen table while you’re preparing dinner or doing dishes may be the perfect spot to read. Make sure there are lots of book choices for your child. This will help avoid the excuse that there’s nothing to read!

The other factor to consider when setting up a reading routine is the length of time your child will spend reading. Very young children may spend five minutes reading with you. As they age and become more proficient readers, this amount of time can increase. For example, you may set the expectation that your 9-year old reads for 20 minutes every night. If you’re not sure what to expect, talk to your child’s teacher for guidance. The goal is to make reading become a habit.

To promote a love of reading, consider setting a positive example yourself. If reading is an activity only your child has to do, he may view it as a chore. Be a role model by letting your child see you reading the newspaper, a magazine, websites, or novels. Highlight other times when reading is an important part of your day, such as when you follow a recipe or read your mail. Help your child see that reading is not just something kids do. Adults do it, too!

For very resistant readers, you may consider implementing an incentive program. For example, allow your child to stay up 10 minutes past her bedtime so she can read. Or, allow your child to trade in a chore so she can read instead. Young children may be motivated to keep a log of their reading to see how many books they can read. Perhaps there will be a celebration when they have reached a certain goal. While it’s ideal that children are intrinsically motivated to read, for those who are simply not interested, you may have to get more creative with the inspiration.

Alesia Netuk

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Alesia is a founder of PrimaryLearning.org, an educational website that helps elementary school teachers and homeschool parents with hands-on worksheets, activities and thoughtful articles.

Where to Delight in Dr. Seuss All Over San Diego

by Red Tri MichelleJune 10, 2019

Delight in the whimsy of Dr. Seuss all over San Diego! From the largest collection of Dr. Seuss items in the world to beholding the secret art of Dr. Seuss, we know all the places you’ll go. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) lived in La Jolla for several decades and signs of his wacky, wonderful work abound throughout town. Your kids may not like green eggs and ham, but they’re guaranteed to love these real-life examples of Dr. Seuss’s zany work. Scroll down for the details.

The Geisel Library

O Palsson via Flickr

Located on the University of California San Diego campus, this iconic library was renamed after Dr. Seuss (whose real name is Theodore Seuss Geisel) in 1995. It houses the largest collection of Dr. Seuss items in the world, including manuscripts, drawings and photos. Because the items are so precious, access is strictly limited. But the public can view the collection when the library displays them over the summer.

Additional Fun to Be Done: Visit the nearby campus bookstore to pick up Seuss supplies like pencils and T-shirts.

UC San Diego
9500 Gilman Dr.
La Jolla, CA 92093
858-534-3336
Online: ucsd.edu
Hours vary depending on time of year.

Bronze Statue of Dr. Seuss and the Cat in the Hat

Alan Cordova via Flickr

Also located on the UC San Diego campus is a bronze statue of Dr. Seuss and arguably his most famous creation, the Cat in the Hat. Created to celebrate 100 years of Dr. Seuss, this life-size statue features Seuss at his desk while a 7.5-foot tall Cat in the Hat looks mischievously over his shoulder.

Additional Fun to Be Done: Your budding art majors are sure to love Niki de St. Phalle’s “Sun God” and Tim Hawkinson’s “Bear” statues also located on campus.

UC San Diego
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093
858-534-2230
Online: ucsd.edu

Legends Gallery

Annie P. via Yelp

This art gallery, located in downtown La Jolla, specializes in “The Secret Art of Dr. Seuss,” showcasing 70 years of Seuss’s paintings and sculptures. In addition to the whimsical images children love, there are also more satirical works, including several poking fun at high society. The entire collection is also viewable online, but there’s nothing quite like seeing his artwork in person.

Additional Fun to Be Done: Visit the nearby Cave Store, home of the Sunny Jim Sea Cave, which offers a unique view of La Jolla Cove.

Legends Gallery
1205 Prospect St.
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-456-9900
Online: legendsgallerylajolla.com

Cave Store
1325 Coast Blvd.
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-459-0746
Online: cavestore.com

Hotel del Coronado

Clay Gilliland via Flickr

Dr. Seuss could see the red-shingled roof of the landmark Hotel Del from his studio and that got him dreaming. In 1970 he painted “I Dreamed I was a Doorman at the Hotel del Coronado,” a riot of whimsical angles and colors. Why not head over the bridge and see what had Seuss so smitten? Over the years the hotel has hosted numerous movie stars, politicians and artists, but you don’t need to book a room to enjoy a stroll on the property or lunch on the patio.

Additional Fun to Be Done: With direct beach access, make sure you find a comfy spot in the sand at dusk to watch the gorgeous sunsets.

Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
800-468-3533
Online: hoteldel.com

Sanford Children’s Library

Leah R. Singer

Kids will be in awe of the towering 16-foot tall wall murals depicting classic Dr. Seuss characters at the Sanford Children’s Library. They’ll also delight in seeing a historical first edition of Dr. Seuss stories.

Additional Fun to be Done: Don’t miss having a gander at the vintage collection from L. Frank Baum’s Oz books while you’re there.

Read all about Sanford Children’s Library here.

San Diego Central Library
330 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92101
Online: SanDiegoLibrary.org

—Michelle Franklin & Beth Shea

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Book It! Drop-In Story Times Beyond the Library

by Sandra LeeJanuary 11, 2018

The library is the standard location for story time, but sometimes a new local adventure is on the books. From the oldest independent bookstore to one of the most serene surroundings in the city, check out our list of where to drop-in, relax and listen to a great book with the little ones.

Bay Area Discovery Museum

InnerSpirit via Flick

When: Every day at 11 a.m.

For story time that's more than just reading books, bring the little explorers to the Bay Area Discovery Museum where stories are brought to life using puppets and props. With rotating themes including Bug Life, Count it Out!, Big Green Monsters and Childhood Classics, it's all about an interactive experience.

Good to know: Since story time is free with admission, go ahead and explore the rest of the museum!

557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA 94965

Online: bayareadiscoverymuseum.org

Books, Inc.

leighklotz via Flickr

When: Various days and times dependent on age and location. Check the website for details.

With 11 locations all over the Bay Area from San Francisco to Santa Clara, Books, Inc. is the oldest independent bookstore since opening back in 1851. Story time sessions range in themes and ages from the Pajama Party for the 3-6 year old set to the Tidbits for the under 3 years old.

Good to know: No story times on Mon., Tues. & Fri.

Various Locations

Online: booksinc.net

San Francisco Botanical Garden

Malcolm Tredinnick via Flickr

When: First and third Sun. of every month at 10:30 a.m. followed by a family garden walk that departs at 11 a.m.

Here's one for the nature lovers that want to learn more about plants, animals and natural history. Tucked in the cozy children's book nook, kids aged 4-8 can enjoy fun stories followed by a special garden walk that bring the stories to life.

Good to know: On beautiful SF afternoons, bring a picnic lunch to the gardens and enjoy the picturesque surroundings after story time.

1199 9th Avenue at Lincoln Way
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco, CA 94122

Online: sfbotanicalgarden.org

The Reading Bug

Mliu92 via Flickr

When: Pre-K, Tues. and Thurs. at 11 a.m; babies & toddlers on Wed. at 11 a.m; newborns on Fri. at 11 a.m; all ages on Sat. at 11 a.m.

This independent family-owned bookstore is so adorable you might not want to leave. Designed to look like an enchanted forest with toadstool and leaf seating, story times take place in the back where your little ones can sing, listen and laugh through books.

Good to know: Sunday storytime is for the 3 & up crowd and includes fun (and free) crafts.

785 Laurel St.
San Carlos, CA 94070

Online: thereadingbug.com

Diesel Bookstore

Quinn Dombrowski via Flickr

When: Thurs. at 10:30 a.m.

With a variety of books from the tried and true classics to the fresh-off-the-press new favorites, this bookstore has about every book you could possibly want to read. Story time is fun and casual, and recommended for the 5 & under set.

Good to know: The bookstore is located in a shopping center with a farmers market, café and even a yoga studio. It's a great spot for some afternoon shopping and lunch!

Marin Country Mart
2419 Larkspur Landing Circle
Larkspur, CA 94939

Online: dieselbookstore.com

Sprout

https://www.flickr.com/photos/clover_1/4344884389/in/photolist-7BWEKP

When: Mon. at 4:15 p.m.

With locations in San Francisco, Mill Valley and Palo Alto, this carefully curated childrens store comes with a side of shopping. The SF location has teamed up with JAMaROO for stories ranging from fables to fairytales with the fun addition of puppets and even dance for the 2-5 set.

Good to know: Drop-in classes are $15/child or $20 for sibilings. Cash preferred as there is a $2 credit card processing fee.

1828 Union St.
San Francisco, CA 94123

Online: sproutsanfrancisco.com

Asian Art Museum

Jennifer Yin via Flickr

When: Various days and times dependent on age. Check the website for details.

With several story times held throughout the week, kids as young as three can get a dose of culture at this amazing museum. Stories for the 7 & up is themed to the main exhibit while those 5 & up can partake in an extra activity session with an Elements of Art Explorer Pack. Story time is free with museum admission and kids 12 & under are always free.

Good to know: Head to the museum on the first Sunday of the month for their Target First Free Sundays!

200 Larkin St.
San Francisco, CA 94102

Online: asianart.org

Do you have a favorite spot to sit and read with your kids? Let us know!

—Sandra Lee

7 Great Indie Bookstores for Pint-Sized Bookworms

by Abbey McGeeOctober 31, 2017

There is nothing quite like cracking open a brand new book; the feel of the pages, the smell of the paper, and of course, the captivating characters and spellbinding storylines. A visit to your local bookstore can open your child’s eyes to the wonderful world of books and help instill a lifelong love of reading. Click through the gallery to see our favorite local bookstores that love kids and put a premium on pint-sized readers.

Elliott Bay Book Company

Nestled in the center of Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, The Elliott Bay Book Company is a full service bookstore, home to over 150,000 titles. And the bookstore features one of our area’s best selection of new books, including a stellar collection of children’s books and graphic novels. The bookstore has great character and an inviting atmosphere for book lovers of all ages. If you have a tween or teen, check out the Underground YA Book Group. The friendly and helpful staff can help you find the perfect book or spend time scanning the shelves to find something that strikes your fancy. While you're there, be sure to visit Little Oddfellows, the cozy, in-house café that offers baked goods, sandwiches, coffee from Caffe Vita and beer and wine for the more mature patrons.

Bonus: Need a sweet treat to cool you down? Head next door and get your ice cream fix at Molly Moon’s, a local favorite that serves up homemade ice cream using local ingredients and sustainable practices.

1521 10th Ave.
Seattle, Wa 98122
Phone: (206) 624-6600
Online: elliottbaybook.com

Hours: Mon–Thurs., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

photo: Elliott Bay Book Company Facebook page

Does your little bookworm have a favorite bookstore? Tell us what makes it so special in the comments below.

— Abbey McGee

Bank Street Bookstore

Books Are Magic

Book Culture

Books of Wonder

La Librairie des Enfants

Greenlight Bookstore

Powerhouse on 8th

Strand Bookstore

Astoria Bookshop

Every Thing Goes Book Cafe and Neighborhood Stage

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