Born To Read by Gloria R. Day
As a first year volunteer in the RSVP Born to Read program, I find it a fulfilling and worthwhile experience. As a new retiree, it has kept me active in the sense that I continue to read children's books to an audience that is curious and alive, much like the third graders I taught for so many years.
This weekly assignment at a local daycare gives me an hour of something that I truly enjoy: reading out loud to children. This gives them the opportunity to find adventure, fantasy, science and mystery through books. It also introduces the children to good literature. The children begin to get an appreciation for reading. It also stimulates their curiosity, increases their listening skills and engages them in a lively discussion about the story. The language component that follows broadens the children's vocabulary and comprehension. Children engage in role-playing, choral reading and reciting and drama. The language activities we work on give them a beginning foundation toward oral communication.
The children also get an opportunity to express their creative talents. I incorporate an art project so that each child gets to bring home a ladybug, a leaf, a poem or a small book, etc. Each project supplements the story. Even at this age, it is a delight to see the creativity in children and the interaction with peers and adults.
The satisfaction I get from my weekly visits reminds me of my years in teaching and seeing the rewards of my labor. As the year progresses, the children grow emotionally, socially and academically and are ready to start a full day of school. The children look forward to me coming because they know I will be entertaining their minds for an hour.
As a new volunteer, the Born to Read program keeps me refreshed and gives me the opportunity to again work with children. I also visit my local library more often and I enjoy choosing books for my daycare visits. Bringing good literature and enthusiasm each week to these children is something I value. Visiting a local daycare and working with the leader and her assistants makes me proud to live in the community.
A highlight of my week is when I walk through the door of the daycare and see the children waiting for me with smiles and hugs. The Born to Read program is a wonderful way to keep in touch with the "young" people. The commitment to this assignment has provided me the opportunity to five something to the community. As I focus on the joys of reading I feel I am more connected to my community and I feel that I am making a significant contribution to the children of my community!
Information on becoming a Born to Read volunteer.
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Born to Read
Maine Humanities Council
674 Brighton Avenue, Portland, ME 04102
Phone: (207) 773-5051
Fax: (207) 773-2416
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