Don't despair writers, a new wave of readers is coming. I just got back from my weekly reading session with Head Start kids. This is a good class. They love books, always asking, Read another one! I think they like stories even a bit more than they like stickers. And if you know any 3-, 4- or 5-year-olds, you know that's big. I hope it lasts.
It's a joy to read to them. Though, sometimes it's a little sad. Last week one of the books was Llama Llama Red Pajama (who better to read that one?) in which Mama Llama snuggles with her baby at bedtime. One of the girls said, I wish my mama was like that. Just about broke my heart.
They can also be funny. Last year, a kid who couldn't say combination s words told this story: One day my grandma got payed by a kunk and she tank!
They tell ALL their families' business. I heard a kid in the hallway today telling his teacher his mom got pulled over by the cops. Bet that's something she didn't really want him spreading around!
You won't be surprised to know that one of my current characters just so happens to be a Head Start teacher. Too much good material there to pass up.
5 comments:
Carleen, I love it when children want to read, want to be told a story. This is the age to grab them and hopefully "hold" them. I read to my children from very early after birth. One still loves to read, the other is much too involved in athletics and says he hasn't "time" to read. I hope that changes as he gets older.
Kindergarten is a wonderful place to spend time, you do hear the most amazing stories that moms and dads have no idea are being re-told. I loved the "s" story and it broke my heart to hear the little girl wishing her mom would read to her the way the mama llama did...don't you just want to cuddle every child?
A new book with a head start teacher as the main character? Can't wait!!
Yes, I do want to just cuddle every child. And there have been a few that have completely stolen my heart.
We never know what children receive at home, or more importantly, what they don't receive. When we offer a smile, a touch, a hug, words of encouragement, we never know when we have made that one small difference in someone's life that changes their world forever. Being a positive role model makes all the difference.
Wow. Just when I thought you were the biggest inspiration to me ever, you kicked it up another notch. You are amazing CB.
Very cool, Carleen. K.
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