Black Hills Reads

08/25/2026

Thank you, Dolly. ❤

08/25/2026

Summer and story pair up in this lovely Dolly Parton Imagination Library selection, The First Strawberries, retold by Joseph Bruchac. Readers are introduced to a captivating Cherokee legend that retells the creation of strawberries. A quarrel between the first man and the first woman is reconciled when the sun causes strawberries to grow out of the earth.

Use our Book Stop Guide as you read along with your child; the activities and questions provided allow for deeper story exploration, which cover themes of human emotions, forgiveness, and the life cycle of this delicious summer treat.

https://unitedwayblackhills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Book-Stop-The-First-Strawberries_updated2.pdf

08/20/2026

Data lets us see where the progress and impact are, it also shows areas of improvement and where families might need more support. Our Early Education Data Dashboard provides important regional information on our early literacy efforts across the Black Hills and the factors that contribute to school readiness and long-term success.
Take a look for yourself, and see how our communities are doing!

Many demographic factors contribute to a child's ability to learn. The data dashboard shows some important trends for early learning.

08/18/2026

Back - to - School Tip! After school, ask your child specific questions about their day!

08/13/2026

Exciting news! Starting this month, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will offer bilingual book options in every state! New registrants will be offered the option to enroll in the core English program or the fully bilingual English-Spanish program. Existing families can also switch over within the parent login area.

08/11/2026

As you and your child prepare for another school year, keep giving them opportunities to discover the stories they love, and find new ways to grow into confident readers! Need some ideas? we've got plenty of resources for you and your family to enjoy!
https://unitedwayblackhills.org/black-hills-reads-resources/

08/06/2026

Our Baby’s First Book Bag program helps families introduce books, words and shared literacy routines during their children’s earliest years. Reading with newborns and toddlers allows them to familiarize themselves with sounds and language and develop meaningful family routines. Learn more about Baby’s First Book Bag and get yourself, or a loved one signed up today!

https://unitedwayblackhills.org/babys-first-book-bag/

08/05/2026

This month’s 2026 Innovation Grant Recipient spotlight is: South Dakota Kids Belong!

South Dakota Kids Belong supports children in foster care, their families and their communities across the state. Through various resource networks and services they help to strengthen these connections, bonds, and sense of belonging. For more information on this impactful organization, visit:

https://americaskidsbelong.org/states/sd/

08/03/2026

School readiness isn’t just for preschoolers; elementary students are still developing the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. You can support your child’s literacy development at any age, and this recent blog from Parent Map has some tips to help you out! https://www.parentmap.com/education/5-ways-strengthen-your-childs-school-readiness/