Elkhart Library program preps kids for kindergarten

December 15, 2010|By Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

ELKHART -- The Elkhart Library is kicking off a new program to encourage youngsters to make reading a lifelong habit.

Like many parents, Dawn Florea can be found at the library. She is picking out books for her young son, Brice, and her daughter, who is now in kindergarten. The idea is to get her kids excited about reading.

“We read stories every evening, usually each of the kids pick two books and we read every evening,” said Florea. “It expands their minds. I think it really helps their minds to be creative.”

With that in mind, the library has started a new reading program to build on that. It’s called “A Thousand Books before Kindergarten,” sponsored in part by Target.

“And what it is, it’s a new literacy program that we have for parents and their children,” said Library Associate Director Tina Emerick. “And what they do is from zero to five, before they start kindergarten, we encourage them to read a thousand books and it will help mentally prepare them for school.”

Already 82 families from around the area have signed up for this literacy program. Anyone who is interested can sign up at any library branch within the city limits.

Greg Morgan is signing up his son, four-year-old Bailien for the program. He already reads to him.

“Right now we spend the evening before his bedtime reading together, looking at pictures,” said Morgan. “Just what stimulates his intellect at this age; it’s a very important part of a child’s growth.”

Kids taking part can win prizes. They'll get a book bag, colorful stickers, book marker, and can take part in a special spring party.

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