Hohenfels children 'get creative' with summer reading program

By Ms. Kristin Bradley (IMCOM)August 5, 2009

Title
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

HOHENFELS, Germany -- In the wide array of images the word "summer" conjures up in the minds of schoolchildren -- afternoons at the pool; nights spent catching fireflies; staying up past bedtime -- enjoying a good book outside of the classroom might not be at the top of many lists.

However, for many children at U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels, summer is a time to do just that: read, and have fun doing it.

A typical weekly meeting in the library's six-week Summer Reading program starts with children bringing their reading logs to Violetta Grant, program coordinator at the USAG Hohenfels library.

They brag to her about how much they have read in the last week and receive stars to place on the wall for a certain number of minutes or books read, depending on the age group. Some might turn in optional homework for extra points in the hopes of becoming the grand winner in their group.

Then it's on to the week's activities inspired by this year's theme for all Army libraries: Be Creative at Your Library. Grant might have the children play a game, do a craft or write a poem.

She said it is all in the hopes of making them more enthusiastic readers.

"This is all to get them involved and show them reading can be fun," said Grant. "There's less pressure than at school because they can pick whatever books they want. I don't have them sign a contract to read a certain amount or anything like that, it's all up to them. If you just start challenging them they want to show you that they can do it."

Her strategy seems to be working.

"I'm reading almost every day now," said Jasmine Stojanovich, 8. "It actually became fun to read."

Gavin Sain, 8, said the program has led him to find books he enjoys.

"This is fun. I love reading, and it keeps me away from playing video games," said Gracie Moats, 9.

Keeping the children reading between school years is vitally important, said Grant.

"You have to train readers because they will forget. And this gets kids interested who are not usually interested in reading," she said, adding that the program benefits the children in ways far beyond their reading skills.

Grant said the program also allows children to interact with others their age and work on their social skills, something especially important for the many children who are new to Hohenfels each summer due to a permanent change in station and may not yet know anyone.

One child, five-year-old Hailey Moats, started off the summer not being able to leave her mother's side. As the weeks went on, she became more and more independent and can now stay in the group by herself, something Moats is very proud of, said Grant.

Those social interactions do not stop with the children, Grant said. Parents also get a chance to meet and interact while their children are in the program, which is especially helpful to those parents new to the Hohenfels community.

"This usually falls around PCS times which is perfect," said Grant. "It helps build community."

Of the almost 80 participants in this year's program, three will be named top readers in their age group.

"There's a special surprise if you win," said Seth Moats, 11.

Though the program runs for six weeks, Grant said most children miss at least one week due to family vacations and other summer activities.

Regardless of how many sessions they attended, all participants were invited to the final party July 24 complete with games, prizes, certificates and awards.

Related Links:

U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Web site