Web sites can help kids read

Reading, experts say, is one of the most important things you can do with your children. New and expecting parents can surf a variety of Web sites to reconnect with classic stories, or find new favorites that will entertain kids and adults alike.

MEDAL WINNERS: The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by a division of the American Library Association to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. Read about 2003 winner "My Friend Rabbit" by Eric Rohmann, as well as past winners. On the Web: www.ala.org/alsc/caldecott.html

PBS KIDS: Although television is seen as a major obstacle in getting children to read, many children's shows on PBS are tied to books or encourage reading, including Clifford, Caillou, Arthur and, of course, Sesame Street. The site has separate sections for various shows, plus lots of activities for children, including games, music and stories. On the Web: www.pbskids.org

ROBERT MUNSCH: Canadian children's author Robert Munsch has written dozens of witty, offbeat books with strange characters that children seem to love, including "The Paper-Bag Princess," "More Pies" and "Love You Forever." His official site has poems, art and more. On the Web: www.robertmunsch.com

FIRST LADY: One of Laura Bush's pet projects is to encourage children to embrace reading. Although her list of recommended books on the White House Web site isn't groundbreaking, she does offer a few ideas for parents. On the Web: www.whitehouse.gov/firstlady/ initiatives/education/recommendedreading.html

FURRY GOOD STUFF: The Berenstain Bear series has delighted young readers for decades. Visit their site for arts and crafts, nature facts, book links and a look at series authors Stan and Jan Berenstain. On the Web: www.berenstainbears.com

PICTURE THIS: Best known for his beloved children's books, Eric Carle is also known through the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Mass., the first full-scale museum in this country devoted to international picture book art. Visit the museum site for coming events, suggested reading lists, related links and teacher resources. On the Web: www.picturebookart.org

MAX AND RUBY: Rosemary Wells is the author of more than 60 children's books, including those featuring Max and Ruby, Edward the Unready and McDuff the dog. Max and Ruby also is now a show on the Nick Jr. network. On the Web: www.rosemarywells.com

JOHN LITHGOW: Many celebrities write children's books; some are even good. John Lithgow, the actor known for TV's "Third Rock" and other roles, has written four whimsical books, including the latest "I'm a Manatee." Lithgow's site features games, music and more. On the Web: www.lithgowforkids.com

CURIOUS GEORGE: The beloved monkey and his friend, the man with the yellow hat, continue to amuse children and their parents. This site, from publisher Houghton Mifflin, features a history of George, a biography of authors H.A. and Margaret Rey and lots of stuff to buy. On the Web: www.georgeworld.com

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