Government launches pre-school reading initiative

(CNS): The Education ministry and the Cayman Islands library service will be launching a library-based reading initiative next week which focuses on pre-school children. Officials said “Play, Read, Learn!” is designed for kids between the ages of three and five years and their parents/caregivers.  The series aims to provide a reading experience for children and carers together that encourages “play with purpose".  The series will focus on a structured storytime programme that incorporates five basic practices that support learning to read: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Each week programme participants will listen to stories, sing songs, and create a craft based on the programme theme.

The modules, which were designed with help from the ministry’s “Early Childhood Care and Education Unit, will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 AM weekly in each location. The classes at George Town Public Library will be held every Wednesday from 30 May to 27 June, and the classes at the West Bay library will be held every Thursday from 24 May to 28 June. 

All children must be accompanied by an adult who will participate in the programme with the child. Spaces will be limited to 15 children along with their parent or caregiver so interested parents are encouraged to contact the libraries to sign up for the programme.

For more information on the “Play, Read, Learn! Programme” please contact Juliet Lawson, Youth/Reference Services Librarian, at the George Town Public Library at 345-949-5159, or Dothlyn McFarlane, Community Librarian, at Emily (Teacher) Redley Powery Memorial Public Library at 345-949-7659.