April 2026: We Are All Connected

This month, in honor of Earth Day, we’re exploring the meaningful idea that everything and everyone is connected through the thoughtful and inspiring book We Are All Connected by Gabi Garcia, illustrated by Natalia Jimenez Osorio.

March 2026: Señorita Mariposa

This month, we’re celebrating the beauty of patience through the vibrant and uplifting story Señorita Mariposa by Ben Gundersheimer.

February 2026: The Year They Learned How to Fly

This month, we’re opening up a conversation about feelings, emotional wellness, and the importance of sharing the worries that children sometimes carry quietly.

Our featured book, The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson, gently reminds us that when worries stay hidden, they can grow, but when we talk about them, they become easier to manage.

January 2026: Ruby Finds A Worry

Parents, children, caregivers and educators are invited to engage in conversations on sharing hidden concerns that can turn into worries that grow. Together we can encourage children to recognize emotions early and seek help, building lifelong healthy habits.

January 2025: Don’t Hug Doug (He Doesn’t Like It)

Join us as we read, Don’t Hug Doug (He Doesn’t Like It) by Carrie Finison, a story about setting healthy boundaries for how we like to greet others and be greeted. A topic for both children and adults, this is a great read to initiate conversations around what each person’s comfort level is with physical space and interactions.

November 2024: The Day You Begin

Join us in reading, The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson.  This month’s story is about reflecting on our personal story and what is important to each child. We often measure ourselves, our belongings, our experiences to others. Around the holidays and school breaks, that can be wonderful or sad for children. We hope this First Fridays edition helps each child find their voice on what is important, special, and wonderful to them.

October 2024: Not a Box

Children, parents, and providers, join us for the October 2024 Global Cardboard Challenge! Join us in reading, Not a Box by Antoinette Portis. This story takes us on a journey of imagination and inspiration. Read, then watch as your children transform household items into the most fun creations!

July 2024: “Paletero Man”

Beat the heat with a cool treat! Join us on a journey through a hot Los Angeles day looking for Paletero Jose! Our July story is written by Lucky Diaz and focuses on the diversity in our communities and what we do to cool ourselves on a hot summer day!

June 2024: “Just Ask!”

This month we join a young Sonia, and her friends on sharing their super powers and special abilities in “Just Ask!” a story written by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Open a discussion on different abilities among children and being accepting of who others are with our June 2024 story, song and activity!

May 2024: “Llama Llama Red Pajama”

Enjoy May with our reading of “Llama Llama Red Pajama” and the activity and song inspired by this emotional story! Take this month as an opportunity to focus on emotions and how to help manage a child’s stress and fear.