Get babies into books with early literacy programs - new eCourse

For Immediate Release
Tue, 12/18/2012

Contact:

Dan Freeman

Editor

ALA Online Resources (AOR)

(800) 545-2433 ext.5413

dfreeman@ala.org

CHICAGO — ALA Editions announces a new eCourse, Getting Babies into Books with Early Literacy Programs. Kathy Kirchoefer will serve as instructor for a four-week facilitated eCourse starting on Feb. 4, 2013.

In those moments when a baby relaxes and cuddles in your lap as you read them a book, a wonderful thing is happening—that baby is learning that books contain words, pictures and stories which are captivating. You can start teaching early literacy skills to babies before they can even speak!

Whether you’re preparing programs for babies in your library or community center, teaching early literacy skills to daycare providers or providing support to new parents in an outreach program, this eCourse is packed with practical tips that will make your work easier and more productive, as well as more fun and effective for babies and their caregivers.

Learning Outcomes:

After participating in this eCourse, you will:

  • Understand the benefits of baby programming for your audience;
  • Be aware of the many different types and styles of programs for babies;
  • Know how to plan a baby program from start to finish, including how to select the best books and music for baby programs;
  • Know where to find resources to enhance your programs;
  • Have practical strategies for dealing with the noise, the smell and an uncooperative audience;
  • Know the basics about baby brain research and early literacy skills.

Kathy Kirchoefer has more than 10 years’ experience shaking the "sillies" out of librarians at trainings and inspiring others to develop programs for babies and the grown-ups who love them. She started leading baby storytimes in 1998 and continues to introduce babies to the wonders of books, and their caregivers to all the bouncing, tickling and cuddling that goes along with it. She currently heads the children’s department at a large suburban public library in Maryland.

Registration for this ALA Editions facilitated eCourse, which begins on February 4th, can be purchased at the ALA Store. Participants in this course will need regular access to a computer with an internet connection for online message board participation, viewing online video, listening to streaming audio (MP3 files), and downloading and viewing PDF and PowerPoint files.

ALA Editions publishes resources used worldwide by tens of thousands of library and information professionals to improve programs, build on best practices, develop leadership, and for personal professional development. ALA authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a growing range of print and electronic formats. Contact ALA Editions at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5418 or editionscoursehelp@ala.org.

ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness, and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide.