Introduction to Kyla
Allow me to introduce Kyla, an inspiring mom who has established the independent publishing company, Homegrown Books. This venture is dedicated to offering ‘reading material as rich as your child’s imagination’. My quest for quality children’s books led me to discover Kyla’s organization, particularly impressed by her series of board books designed to help young children embark on their reading journey. Homegrown Books emerges as a fantastic option amidst the multitude of educational tools available today.
A glimpse into Kyla’s life as a mom
Are you a mom?
Absolutely! I have two sons—one is 12 years old, and the other is 21.
What are your experiences as a mother?
I often grapple with the familiar challenge of balancing work, family, and self-care. However, I feel incredibly fortunate to have all these aspects in my life!
Motivation and inspiration
What drives you in your work?
I am inspired to craft beautiful and engaging books for children who are learning to read. My goal is to create materials that not only respect but also support their literacy journey. I strive to expose kids to not only visually appealing art but also intriguing content that provokes thought and curiosity. Being married to an artist and coming from a family of creatives, I frequently visit various galleries and museums. Living in New York City, with its unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship, continually inspires me.
The Birth of Homegrown Books
What prompted you to establish Homegrown Books?
As a reading specialist, I have spent many years assisting children in developing their reading skills. During my private sessions, I recognized a significant gap in compelling reading materials for the earliest readers that also supported their learning. Children can easily discern when something lacks engagement. Through my teaching, I encountered an artistic and educational colleague who similarly identified the scarcity of aesthetically pleasing and instructive reading materials. Together, we set out to create a set of books to fill this void, resulting in our inaugural book pack, ‘The Play Pack’
The Vision for Homegrown Books
What is your aspiration for Homegrown Books?
My ultimate dream is for families worldwide to recognize the diverse and engaging options available for early readers. I hope educators and parents will embrace organic learning methodologies and move away from traditional workbooks. I envision families sharing meaningful reading experiences, whether reading together or allowing children to explore books independently, fostering connections through literature.
Favorite reads
Do you have favorite books for children and adults?
That’s a tough one! It really depends on the context, as there are countless great stories. Recently, I have delved into non-fiction and just finished reading New Slow City. Especially in NYC, establishing genuine community connections can be challenging. The Italian slow food movement embodies a philosophy of supporting local shopping and meals crafted from scratch. This concept has resonated with me, leading me to realize we need to slow down in how we educate our children as well. We should encourage kids to spend time in nature, play with beautiful, non-branded toys, and engage in meaningful conversations with adults.
Among the children’s literature, I find myself drawn to classics by Maurice Sendak, along with other favorites from my childhood. A particularly touching new release is The Conductor by Laetitia Devernay. Publishers like Enchanted Lion Books are also noteworthy for their stunning offerings that truly inspire.
Popular titles at Homegrown Books
Which books are your bestsellers?
We’ve seen a warm reception for our board books, specifically In My Garden and Night Light. Additionally, our two latest releases, Air and What Do You See? are garnering enthusiastic feedback and strong sales, which is thrilling!
Advice for young readers
What advice do you have for children learning to read?
I have plenty of tips! Our website hosts a wealth of resources for parents and educators teaching kids how to read, including instructional videos and links to helpful online tools. And don’t forget, introducing our books to children at a young age can accelerate them into reading much sooner than you’d expect!
Family essentials
What are your must-haves for the entire family, including parents and kids? This could range from beauty and fashion to books and websites.
Comfortable shoes, a deck of cards, and any great book!
Family-friendly spots in NYC
What are some top spots to visit in your hometown for families or parents?
New York City is teeming with amazing places, making it hard to choose. One of our favorites is The Frying Pan, a boat docked off the west side highway that features a restaurant. It’s a unique spot where adults can enjoy beverages while kids can explore the boat and its inner workings. Any venue that allows parents to relax while kids enjoy themselves is a winner in our book!