Though the summertime is one of recreation and relaxation, often taking the form of outdoor activity, adventure or sports, it is all too common for pastimes like reading to be left behind.
Fortunately for concerned parents, the Squamish Public Library has begun its Summer Reading Club for the 26th year is a row. Summer reading clubs are an initiative shared by communities province-wide in an effort to keep children reading over their hiatus from school, but they serve other functions as well.
“A lot of the teachers support the program because it’s a great way to encourage kids to keep reading over the summer. Not only is it fun to read new books, but it’s a great way to get to know the library better. It becomes a hub of the community and a good way to hang out with friends,” said Kate Inman, organizer of the club.
Children can register for two programs. The first involves filling a reading record for the library.
As the children make progress on the reading, they may come to the library to get their record updated, winning stickers and prizes, as well as a medal at the end of the summer.
The second program is held every week on Tuesdays, Wednesday, Thursdays and Saturdays, and involves a fun-filled hour of stories, games, reading and craft, which parents can sign their children up for a week in advance.
Though the club caters to children of varying age, typically from six to 12 years old, the differing skill levels, Inman explained, would not be an issue.
“I always want to make everybody realize they don’t need to be strong readers or even know how to read if they’ve just finished kindergarten. They can come to be read to. It’s very inclusive and they don’t need to come to the library a lot to be participating either,” she said. Indeed, the program allows both children and parents a great deal of flexibility when designing their reading programs.
“The kids can come in or start any time they want, they can read any and every book, as long as they come down to get their prizes, updates and medals. The more that come the more fun it is. Also, it’s free,” Inman added.
