From Screens to Smiles: District’s Storytime Nurtures Children’s Early Literacy Skills

Disponible en: Español

When families sit together to listen to a story, something special happens. Children lean in, imaginations spark, and parents and caregivers share a moment that builds both memories and skills that last a lifetime.

That spirit is at the heart of Aldine ISD’s Storytime, a monthly opportunity for families with young children to enjoy live read-alouds together while learning simple strategies to support reading at home.

The district’s Storytime is designed for students in prekindergarten through second grade and is hosted once a month by the district’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department in the evening, making it easier for families to join from home, on the go, or wherever they are. Stories are read in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language, reflecting Aldine ISD’s commitment to inclusion and access for all families.

Storytime sessions are live, and families can interact in real time through chat, shout-outs, and questions. Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to ask for ideas on how to help their children choose “just-right” books or practice reading skills at home.

“Storytime is not only about listening to stories,” said LaTashia Abrams, executive director of FACE. “It’s about coming together as a community to connect, have fun, and learn together. We want families to feel confident reading with their children and to discover books that excite them.”

A Growing Tradition of Connection

In addition to monthly online sessions, FACE also hosts special events, including author visits and in-person Storytime opportunities. For example, an author visit in December brought families together to enjoy reading, crafts, and conversation — providing a glimpse of what’s possible when literacy is celebrated as a family.

FACE has announced that another in-person Storytime is planned for May 2026, and an exclusive invitation will be extended to families who participate in the monthly virtual Storytime events throughout the spring semester.

Why Early Literacy Matters

Early literacy lays the groundwork for future success. Reading with young children helps them:

develop strong vocabulary and communication skills
understand feelings and build empathy
strengthen memory and problem-solving abilities
become confident, curious learners
feel prepared for school and future academic success

Families participating in Storytime have shared that the experience helped them:

Discover “just-right” books for their children.
Explore stories from different cultures and languages.
Create intentional time to read and enjoy books together.

“Our hope is that families leave Storytime feeling empowered,” Abrams said. “We want parents and caregivers to see that they play the most important role in building a love of literacy at home.”

Tips for Enjoying Storytime at Home

FACE encourages families to:

Bring a snack or a favorite beverage like hot chocolate.
Grab a cozy blanket.
Invite a stuffed animal “reading buddy.”
Enjoy Storytime together.

Mark Your Calendar: 2026 Virtual Storytime Dates

All sessions are 5:30–6:30 p.m. Each online Storytime session features district and community guest readers with stories shared in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Join us live — you might even be surprised with a prize during some Storytime sessions!