Joyful Literacy in Action: Research, Partnerships, and Everyday Opportunities

This panel showcases how joyful literacy is taking shape across Montana—from the research behind shared book reading, to community leadership networks, to innovative partnerships that embed language-rich learning opportunities in everyday spaces. Facilitator: Dr. Kate Brayko, University of Montana Professor of Literacy 1. The Research is In! Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Reinforces the Power of Shared Book Reading Attendees will leave with (1) an understanding of how Imagination Library reinforces the power of shared book reading, (2) key findings on a groundbreaking international research study of the Imagination Library, and (3) why this research matters for Montana families. 2. The Early Learning Fellows Model (stories from Missoula and Gallatin Counties) This spotlight will (1) explore the Early Learning Fellows model as a community-driven approach to strengthening early childhood systems through local leadership and collaboration, (2) showcase stories from Missoula and Gallatin Counties that illustrate how cross-sector partnerships are supporting young children, families, and early educators, and (3) reflect on opportunities in your own community to build relationships, align efforts, and advance shared responsibility for early learning. 3. Project ELLO: Everyday Language and Learning OpportunitiesThe ELLO team will showcase (1) the purpose and design of Project ELLO and how partnerships with Parks & Recreation and Community Health organizations can extend language-rich learning into everyday community spaces, (2) implementation examples that highlight how cross-sector partners are embedding simple prompts, visuals, and playful interactions in parks, recreation programs, and community settings to support young children’s language and learning, and (3) opportunities for collaboration in your own community to create accessible, language-rich environments that support children and families through everyday experiences.