Why Awards Matter: The Unexpected Benefits of Recognition, Connection, and Celebration
Awards serve as exclamation marks—chances to pause and say, this matters. Maya Payne Smart reflects on building change with
Read the postRising Together: My Reflections on Getting the 2025 Champion of Children Award at Beyond School Hours
Literacy lifts communities! Maya Payne Smart, 2025 Champion of Children, challenges us to help every child read, grow, and
Read the post5 Things Parents Need to Know About the 2024 NAEP Reading Scores Crisis
What do the 2024 NAEP national reading scores mean for your child? Get key takeaways and action steps for
Read the postLiteracy Champion Offers a Case Study in How to Be an Advocate (Hint: Lead With Curiosity)
Attorney Kevin Long didn’t set out to become a literacy advocate. But thoughtful curiosity drove him to become a catalyst for
Read the postI’ve Had a Fantastic Year Promoting Literacy for All. Who’ll Join My 2025 Plans?
Parenting author and literacy expert Maya Payne Smart shares exciting plans for 2025, plus literacy for all successes in
Read the postThe Christmas Books Campaign that Launched My Literacy Advocacy
Celebrating 10 years since Maya Smart’s pivotal role as The Richmond Christmas Mother, where her passion for literacy and early
Read the postLiteracy First Celebrates 30 Years of Impact with Reading for Our Lives Book Club
Parenting author Maya Payne Smart discusses the gold standard of reading tutor programs & a thoughtful book conversation on
Read the post4 Lessons for Parents from National Ambassador for Children’s Literature Meg Medina
Library of Congress children’s literature ambassador Meg Medina shares valuable lessons for parents about helping their kids
Read the postThis Library Ditched Summer Reading Rewards. Here’s Why.
Summer reading rewards programs are a staple at libraries across the country. But do they actually get kids to read—and love
Read the postHow to Choose a Preschool or Childcare for Your Child
Choosing a preschool or childcare for your child? Use this guide from national literacy thought leader Maya Payne Smart to make
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