When I was a child, everything about the holidays felt glittery and magical. This was undoubtedly due in large part to the tireless efforts of my mother, who was possibly a Claus in some former life. Each year in the weeks leading up to Christmas, she energetically directed us kids through various festive rituals: baking … Continued
We want to offer special recognition to our bookstore friends that have committed to hosting book drives for CLiF over the holiday season. Each of these stores is a community mainstay, and we are very grateful for our shared commitment to inspiring young readers. Just one more reason to shop small, local and literary this season–and every season!
Here’s a peek behind the scenes at how CLiF selects, orders, organizes, and distributes the many thousands of books we give away to under-resourced children in Vermont and New Hampshire each year.
Throughout CLiF’s many years of inspiring a love of literacy among Vermont and New Hampshire children, the power and value of books has been central to our mission. Almost every CLiF event includes a book giveaway with a wide range of diverse books on offer, as well as an in-person presentation by an author or … Continued
Straddling the international border line, and the two towns of Derby Line, VT and Stanstead, Quebec, is the Haskell Free Library & Opera House. This unique and charming public library serves both U.S. and Canadian citizens, and was awarded a CLiF grant for the first time in 2024.
Sometimes I do school and community programs. Some of my books feature newcomer kids. But mostly it was because I was friends with Sara Lesley Warner (@saralesleyarnold – Sara’s pen name). Sara’s a kidlit writer and media specialist at Henry Wilson School, Manchester, NH. So it was Sara who invited me to present with her on the … Continued
When we launched CLiF’s first Two-Sentence Story Contest back in February 2023, we were realistic about our goals and expectations. “Thirty entries would be great,” we agreed. “That would be a success.” The challenge for that inaugural contest was: “Tell us a story about winter.” And, as it turns out, the children of Vermont and … Continued
General / Writing / Literacy Activities
CLiF’s 2024 Two-Sentence Writing Contest is underway! This year’s theme is “Tell Us a Two-Sentence Story That Takes Place in the Sky.” Free to enter, and open to all Vermont and New Hampshire kids 12 and under. Prizes will be awarded to top entries. Submissions must be received by March 29.
CLiF is incredibly fortunate to have many dedicated volunteers whose behind-the-scenes efforts boost our organization’s efficiency and function immeasurably. We recently sat down with Trevor Luce, the tech guru who generously serves as CLiF’s entire IT department, to ask him a few questions about his background with the organization, and what motivates him to volunteer.
The CLiF Year of the Book grant is a huge deal for schools that are selected. It’s a massive infusion of funds, support, and events designed to help a school build a culture of literacy over the academic year. And, of course, they get lots of books! Students (grades preK-6) each get to take home 10 new, high-quality books that they choose for themselves from a diverse selection.
It’s never too early to start reading with your child. Because our brains begin to develop the building blocks of language during infancy, even newborn babies benefit from being read to by a parent or caregiver. Not only does reading aloud to your child help build their listening skills, vocabularies and attention spans, it is also a great opportunity to bond and create positive memories together.
The leaves are starting to turn, the air is growing brisker, and the pumpkin spice is running rampant. Fall is officially here, bringing with it a slew of seasonal literacy activities you can do with your child! As kids settle back into their school day routines, it’s a great time to instill an appreciation for reading and writing that extends beyond the classroom setting.
September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month, the perfect time to take your child to sign up for their first library card! In today’s fast-paced digital age, where information is just a click away, it can be too easy for some to overlook the timeless appeal of the library. However, libraries remain an invaluable resource for cultivating a love of reading and learning, especially among children. The simple act of acquiring a library card opens the door to endless possibilities for a child, while establishing the groundwork for a lifelong relationship with an institution where everyone is welcome.
The Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF) is looking for a part-time finance coordinator to join our team! Perks include flexible hours, friendly co-workers, a brand-new office space with plenty of parking, bottomless mugs of Nespresso coffee, being part of an organization with an undeniably great mission, and much more!
General / Book Recommendations
At the Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF), we’re big believers in encouraging kids to choose their own books, but we also recognize that a little guidance can be helpful. With that in mind, we asked some bookish pals to recommend some of their favorite books for readers aged 8 to 12. Here’s what they said.
General / Book Recommendations
Two weeks ago, my 9-year-old daughter watched our beloved hometown of Montpelier, VT go from an idyllic downtown to a mess of ruined homes, businesses, apartments, and office buildings. We’ve witnessed a lot of destruction as well as people coming together to support each other, fundraise, and rebuild. I cannot emphasize these messages of resilience enough as we think and talk about the flood. And yet, I must say it’s a very, very sad scene.
CLiF sends out a print newsletter twice a year, sharing stories from our programs, news from our partners and presenters, our map representing the sites we serve, and of course, lots of pictures from our events! If you don’t currently receive our print newsletter, and would like to, please send us an email!
Picture this: A young girl crosses her arms and scowls when things don’t go her way. She’s mad because she can’t control what’s happening in her life. In another scenario, a little boy hides, throws his toys, and cries when he is sad. These sound like everyday situations–and they are–but when children arrive at school holding on to big feelings like these, it makes learning and socializing difficult.
CLiF has served over 350,000 children since 1998.