As children grow and progress through life, their development unfolds across multiple dimensions. In the elementary years, this phase is particularly pivotal, encompassing substantial growth in physical abilities, social and emotional maturity, cognitive skills, language proficiency, and moral understanding. For parents who wish to better understand this critical phase of childhood, the CDC offers a wealth of information for parents of children between the ages of four and eleven. The State of California Department of Education is also an excellent resource for those who wish to be better understand school curriculum standards and grade level assessments.
The library works with families as well as with educators to help support a child’s ongoing development. By offering age‑appropriate programs and curating a youth‑focused collection that enhances literacy and supports classroom learning, PACL is fully invested in providing the resources you need:
Ongoing Programs for Children Ages 4-11:
- Family Storytimes
- Family Crafts
- Next Chapter Book Club (for grades 4-5)
- Lego Programs
Library Materials for Children Ages 4-11:
- To better understand the different sections of our library and how to find the right books for each stage of your child’s reading development, please read our blogpost detailing Recommendations by Reading Level.
- Our Youth Services Librarians have also curated a collection of book lists for children. You’ll find our official recommendatons for all different age groups, genres, and topics here! More informally, our staff book lists highlight some of our individual favorites. Our library offers Read Together Storytime Kits, which can be checked out in a handy backpack. Kit themes include everything from dealing with the news to exploring different cultures.
- If you have a reluctant reader, Read Along books are a great way to foster their interest! You and your child can follow along while listening to professional audio narration. Check out our Vox and Wonderbooks -- these types of books are available in reader, picture book, chapter book, and nonfiction book formats.
eLibrary Resources
In addition to print materials, Palo Alto City Library has online resources to enhance literacy learning skills.
- Check out eBook collections on Overdrive/Libby. Fans of Pete the Cat, Peppa Pig, and Berenstain Bears are sure to find something. Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Head over to the Kids Collection to find eBooks and audiobooks for all ages.
- Log in to your Hoopla account and turn on Kids mode to find audiobooks, eBooks, movies, and more! When you turn on Kids Mode, you’ll only see content recommended for kids 12 and younger.
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