When it comes to learning how to read, there is a world of activities and tools that parents can use to help their children develop literacy skills. The Arlington Public Library has long provided traditional offerings such as storytime programs and children's shelves stocked with colorful and engaging picture books. Now, thanks to a grant from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, the library has a modern option for parents: Early Literacy iPads.

Starting in January, the library began introducing iPads in Preschool Storytime and Toddler Time, using the devices to demonstrate such storytime elements as sign language, images and sounds of animals, or the spelling of simple words. This summer, Early Literacy iPads were made available for public use at the East and Southeast branches, where parents of 0-5-year-olds can use the tablets in-house with their children to practice literacy-building skills together.

"The Early Literacy iPads provide an opportunity for parents to introduce their children to technology in a positive and beneficial way," Youth Services Manager Abby Dozier said. "We took a lot of care to select apps and games that are literacy-based. Everything on these devices will help develop reading skills, including letter sounds and concepts, fine motor skills, music, rhyming, sorting, and matching."

Dozier said that a common challenge for parents in today's high-tech world is knowing how, or even if, they should use technology like tablets with their children. She said the Early Literacy iPads, with their pre-loaded children's e-books and literacy apps, provide an opportunity for parents to share a positive technology experience with their children in an environment that encourages shared learning between parent and child.

"One of the most important things we strive to impart in our children's programming is that parents are a child's first and most important teacher," Dozier said. "That role includes modeling positive behaviors, and the earlier parents can show their children how to use technology in a way that is beneficial rather than distracting, the better it will be for both. The Early Literacy iPads provide this opportunity, especially for those who might not have a tablet at home."

The Library's Early Literacy iPads are available for in-house checkout at the East or Southeast branches, and can be used by adults with a current Arlington Public Library card and are accompanied by a child 5-years-old or younger. To learn more, visit http://www.arlingtonlibrary.org/kids-blog/early-literacy-ipads-are-here