Children keep learning through Summer Reading Program

By CPL Park, Min JeAugust 14, 2017

Storywalk program catches both reading and workout at library
1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Storywalk program catches both reading and workout at library
2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

USAG Yongsan---The sounds of reading intertwined with the laughter and birds singing as the U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan Library hosted its summer reading program July 18 for children and parents looking for something to do over the summer vacation time.

More than 50 children and parents gathered at the library to take part in the Storywalk program, and made their way, reading through the book, "Dear Mr. Blueberry" as they walked from the library to the Yongsan Education Center.

The Storywalk Program is designed so that children can enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time and was sponsored by the Army Strong B.A.N.D.S. (Balance, Activity, Nutrition, Determination and Strength) program.

Laminated pages from a children's book are attached to stakes, and posted along a designated walking path. Parents and instructors read books to children as they stroll down the trail. Other fun activities are often added at select stops to add even more fun.

"While they walk and read books they do exercises, stretch and hop," said Esther Kim, supervisory librarian. "It is both fitness and reading so it is good for the children and the parents like it."

Some parents appreciated the opportunity for their kids to not only learn, but also have the chance to get out and get some physical activity. While encouraging them to be involved in children's education. It also helps children to build interest in reading.

After reaching the Yongsan Education Center, kids and parents made their way back to the library for refreshments.

According to Kim, the program was a great success and she was happy that the weather didn't hamper the turn out.

"Despite the rain in the morning, more than we had expected gathered at the library. Both parents and children liked the program very much since it helped promote both physical fitness and reading," Kim said. "This was the second time we did the Storywalk Program. The first one was June 20 as part of summer reading program, and we're going to hold the program quarterly."