With support from Missouri Humanities and generous funding from the Missouri Humanities Trust Fund, Ready Readers launched Storytime Expansion Kits to help young children explore Indigenous histories, cultures, and continued presence in Missouri and beyond. More than 1,000 early childhood classrooms participating in the Ready Readers Storytime Program received kits, reaching approximately 18,000 children in under-resourced communities across the St. Louis metro area.
Developed in recognition of the 250th anniversary of America, this initiative helps children build an understanding of our country’s past, present, and future through age-appropriate, high-quality literature and hands-on learning. Storytime Expansion Kits extend learning beyond the page. Each kit pairs a carefully selected book authored by an Indigenous writer with classroom supplies and curriculum ideas designed to spark engagement through stories, pretend play, sensory exploration, arts and music, and STEM activities. By centering authentic voices and immersive experiences, the kits foster early literacy while nurturing cultural awareness and respect.
Through this humanities-centered approach, Ready Readers ensures that even our youngest learners are included in this important national milestone.
To learn more about Ready Readers visit readyreaders.org.
To learn more about Missouri Humanities grants, or to apply for a grant, visit mohumanities.org/grants.
