We are thinkers
What do you want to explore?
Afterschool and summer learning ... starts with a book!
1. Choose a topic to explore
Do you know any young detectives, artists, or inventors? Or children fascinated by dinosaurs, planes, birds, stars and planets, or music? You'll find 25 topics to dive into!
2. Find great kids’ books
Reading with kids sparks curiosity and conversation. We’ve carefully matched each topic with a wide range of awesome fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and graphic novels to encourage more independent reading.
3. Keep the adventure going!
Browse our curated collection of topic-related activities, ideas for writing, educational apps, podcasts, and websites for inquisitive kids — designed to help to build background knowledge.
Our Democracy Guide
Explore civics and our government
Tune In! Toolkit
Go on a music adventure with kids
Bug Buddies Toolkit
Get the buzz on insects!
“The free engaging, research-based ideas from Start with a Book build on what young children already like — dinosaurs, building, animals, sports, superheroes, music, and more — so that parents can have fun and interact meaningfully with children while helping to strengthen their reading skills. ”