December 2018 
Reading Buddies eNews
I nformation and resources for
Imagination Library families
Education is the key to ending poverty. And we know that when parents are reading to their children, they are far more likely to succeed in school. And therefore, in life. That’s exactly why United Way is on a mission to get age-appropriate books into their little hands through the Imagination Library. Learn more at UnitedWayErie.org/Imagination

The Imagination Library for Erie County is funded 100% by United Way of Erie County through local community support.
Do you know someone who may want to register a child for United Way's Imagination Library in Erie County? It's simple! Forward this newsletter or share  this link .
Erie Playhouse Holiday Sing-Along
Join the Erie Playhouse for Holiday Sing-Along at 11:00 am   on Saturday, December 8 at the Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10 St. Erie, PA 16501.

There will be jingle bells, holiday smells, and happy yells as we croon in the holiday spirit together! Learn More
Fun Ways to Keep Your Child Reading Over the Holidays

The holidays can be a tricky time to convince your child to continue with their regular reading schedule. Practicing their reading doesn’t have to mean sitting still at the table and reading a book they don’t like until the timer goes off.

Here are three ways you can keep your child reading while bringing the Christmas spirit:
  • Go to local library reading events
  • Talk about books in the car
  • Write a special holiday list with at least 5 books that you plan to read over the holidays
Other Upcoming Events & Storytimes
Thursday December 6 at 6:30 pm
Evening Storytime at the Blasco Memorial Library.
Do you work during our morning story time sessions? No need to miss out! Bring the family and join us for fun stories and activities on Thursday evenings. We will sing, dance, play games, craft, watch puppet shows, and more. Story times are a great opportunity to help your child get ready to read. Come join the fun! Learn More.

Friday, December 7 at 12:15 pm
First Friday Storytime at the Achievement Center
To kick off the holidays, bring your child to the Achievement Center's First Friday reading event where your child will e njoy a read-aloud and then complete a craft project. The Achievement Center will have resources on hand and a light snack. Learn more.

Friday, December 7 at 7:00pm
Pajama Storytime and Activities featuring the Polar Express at Barnes & Noble
Join in the fun for this beloved Christmas story featuring a young boy who is welcomed aboard on a magical trip to the North Pole where he gets to make his Christmas wish. Get free hot chocolate and a cookie from our Café, and don't forget to wear your favorite cozy pajamas. Learn more.

Monday, December 10 at 10:00 am
Baby Bounce at the Blasco Memorial Library.
This story time is for our littlest library users and includes read-a-long books, songs, bounces, and rhymes. Afterward, enjoy playtime with baby-safe toys. Learn more.

Thursday, December 13 at 10:00 am
Preschool Story Time at Blasco Memorial Library
Explore stories at the library! Join us for an interactive story time featuring books, music, movement, art projects, and more. Have fun while helping your child get ready to read. Learn more.

Saturday, December 15 at 10:00 am
Santa I Know Him! at the Blasco Memorial Library
Holiday cheer? Cookie decorating? Christmas coloring? Actually meeting SANTA? If you’re interested in any of these grand activities, please join us! Bring your own camera or phone to take pictures with Santa and enjoy a wholesome family event. Please RSVP so that we may have enough cookies for every child to decorate. Learn more.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is eye catching and intriguing to toddlers and preschoolers. How much can one caterpillar eat? And what happens when he eats that much? Good introduction to the days of the week as well as some great food vocabulary. A definite plus to add to your toddler's library.

Stay Connected!
Great information, resources, reading guides and tips are shared on the Imagination Library for Erie County Facebook page . Be sure to Like and Follow the page to stay up to date and informed!


Got photos of your child reading?

Does your child love Imagination Library books?

Just enrolled and received their first book? Just had a fifth birthday and received  Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come! and graduation certificate? 

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS via email to  photos@unitedwayerie.org .

Need help? Just dial 2-1-1 . A trained operator will connect you with information about financial assistance, counseling, food/clothing/shelter, health services, substance abuse and much more! It's always free and confidential .
The Imagination Library for Erie County is funded 100% by United Way of Erie County through local community support.