BookSmart

BookSmart

by | Oct 2, 2023

BookSmart is a free digital library of books appropriate for children 3-12 years old. It features hundreds of books in numerous languages, including English and Spanish. It can be used to enhance in- and out-of-school reading, to help parents engage in conversations around books, and to provide book access and programming for out-of-school clubs and libraries. This platform can be viewed as a website or downloaded as an app on any electronic device that uses iOS or Android software. No personal information is required to access these digital books. Simply visit booksmart.world/facct to get started, or click the link below.

Parent Guides for B.E.S.T. Standards English Language Arts

Parent Guides for B.E.S.T. Standards English Language Arts

by | Sep 6, 2022

The B.E.S.T. Standards for English Language Arts (ELA) are literacy standards for Florida students that will shape their education and make Florida the most literate state in the nation. Parent Guides are available to help families learn more about the B.E.S.T. ELA Standards for students in grades kindergarten through grade 8. This resource provides suggested book lists, activities to encourage learning at home in ways that are fun for parents and children and important educational (academic) words that parents will see in their child’s grade-level standards.

New Worlds Reading Initiative

New Worlds Reading Initiative

by | Jul 14, 2022

New Worlds Reading is Florida’s free at-home literacy program to help eligible VPK through 5th grade students in Florida bolster literacy skills, build reading confidence, and foster a lifelong love of reading. Each month, eligible kids receive a free book tailored to their interests with resources and activities for caregivers and children to use together. The UF Lastinger Center for Learning administers the program and selected Scholastic as a partner. Books are selected in collaboration with the Florida Department of Education and are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille. For more information, visit newworldsreading.com.

University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning

University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning

by | Jul 14, 2022

The UF Lastinger Center for Learning improves the quality of teaching, learning, and caregiving. We research, develop, and scale equitable educational innovations for adults and children that put all learners on trajectories for lifelong success. We provide professional development in early learning, literacy, and mathematics.

Approved Early Literacy Courses

Approved Early Literacy Courses

by | Jul 14, 2022

Pursuant to Section 402.305(2)(d)5., F.S., all child care personnel must complete a single course of training in early literacy and language development of children ages birth through five years that is a minimum of five clock hours or .5 CEUs. Early literacy training must be completed within 12 months of date of employment in the child care industry. Proof of completion may be documented on a certificate of course completion, classroom transcript, or diploma.