The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge is a Library program that encourages all families and caregivers to read at least 1000 books with their young children before they enter kindergarten. Reading to preschool-age children builds vocabulary, language skills, and helps prepare them with the skills they need for kindergarten. In as little as 15 minutes a day, families can build the skills for future school and life success.
Who can participate?
Preschool-age children (0-5 years old) in Jefferson County with their family/caregivers.
How does the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge work?
- Getting Started – Registration for the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Program is now available on Beanstack!
- Track Your Reading – Each time you read a book with your child, record it in your Beanstack account or in your reading log. Readers will earn milestone badges and rewards as they work towards reading 1,000 books. Books can be logged through Beanstack or download a printable Reading Log.
- Show Us Your Reading Logs – Each time you and your child reach a milestone listed below, visit the Library with your reading log (or we can look you up on Beanstack) and collect your prize. Read 1,000 books before kindergarten and your child will receive a Reading medal of their very own.
Reading Reward Milestones:
- 100 books = golden sticker
- 250 books = bookmark
- 500 books = memo pad & pen
- 750 books = a free book!
- 1000 books = a READING medal!
Download a printable Reading Log
How can you read 1000 books to your child?
In as little as 15 minutes a day! The average picture book takes just 5 minutes to read
– and –
3 books a day(just 15 minutes) for 1 year = 1,095 books!
You can even read your favorite books over and over again.