Childers Read to Me Day – Queensland’s children are the second most vulnerable in the acquisition of language and communication, in Australia. Studies show that children who are frequently read to (4-5 times a week), are 7 times more likely to complete their education than children who are not read to, by their families. If we are to help our children become strong life-long learners, we must inve
st time to read to them. What better way of getting the message out than to involve the whole community. If their educational future isn’t enough, we love our children and want them to experience the joy of reading for pleasure; to be transported into the fascinating world of fiction; and to be encouraged to dream and imagine! With the involvement of our whole community we too can provide this exciting and uniting experience for our kids; particularly when we invite older students and adults to model a love of reading and storytelling. Besides, it’s great fun for all involved and why shouldn’t we have another reason to smile? Program - A theme is adopted and books of that theme are read to young children from the surrounding primary schools and early childcare centres. The suggested theme for our inaugural event is The Circus as costumes and books are either readily available or made, and all kids (large and small) love the circus. Reading stations are set up at participating businesses and these are usually decorated in theme. Adults and children alike are encouraged to come dressed in theme. The day kicks off with a welcome to all and a general “where’s what and when” (strategically placed flyers are located around the street to support this information). This welcome could be located in Millennium Park. Groups of approximately 10-15 youngsters with accompanying adults and, where possible, high school students make their way around the reading stations whilst being entertained, as they transition, by street performers. Each group would be directed to start at a particular reading station to alleviate congestion. Drink stations would be set up at several locations. After approximately 2hours, groups would reconvene for a performance followed by a sausage sizzle. A final farewell and thank you to businesses and supporters would conclude the day’s activities in time for students to return to school before final bells.
