Lucie Hill

Library Technician

Hello everyone,

In this newsletter I wanted to ask all our parents and caregivers one question - Do you look at the books your child brings home from the library each week?

Each grade comes into the library once a week, where the students chose 2 books to take home and 1 book for the classroom. They take great care in choosing the books they want to borrow, and at times they may not be the correct reading level for them, but we encourage them to choose books that spark their enthusiasm for books and reading. I hope that most of you do take an interest in the books they bring home, and more importantly, I hope you are reading to your children on a regular basis.

Language is the most powerful tool human beings possess. And reading is one of the most fulfilling and effective means to master this tool. The habit of reading, if introduced at an early age, helps in brain development and enhances imagination. It’s never too early to read to a child and to build this habit. It’s a gift for a lifetime.

Below are 8 reasons why reading is so vital for your child’s development.

1. Cognitive development

Children acquire a deep understanding of their world and receive background knowledge. This helps them make sense of what they see, hear, and read, which aids their cognitive development.

2. Better vocabulary

Reading at an early age not only helps children learn new words and new ways to express themselves, but it also improves their grammar and teaches new concepts.

3. Enhanced empathy

Reading allows children to understand various emotions. This helps in their emotional and social development since they learn to associate their feelings with words and find a way to express themselves better. Books showcase various characters and perspectives which allows children to be more empathetic. The cause and effect concept in stories helps develop their analytical skills besides encouraging curiosity, which is crucial to learning.

4. Bonding between parent and child

Reading time is a beautiful ritual that allows parents and children to connect and unwind. Children love to hear stories from parents while parents find it relaxing to be in a space of fantasy and wonder. Stories trigger conversations and questions that help a child learn and express. Not only is this ritual enjoyable but it also triggers a positive association in a child’s mind.

5. Sparks curiosity

Only a curious mind attempts to learn. Stories are an insight into parts of the world that are yet unknown to children. A variety of topics present possibilities to children and intrigues them. A book on famous artists, butterflies across the world or the universe may inspire children to explore further and learn more. It also allows children to learn about different cultures and people.

6. Develops concentration

Regular and consistent reading helps to improve children’s concentration abilities. As they sit still and listen for long periods, it builds patience that benefits them at school.

7. Creativity

Reading a book encourages the use of imagination. Characters, costumes, buildings, situations and dialogues create a visual impression while reading. This imagination sparks further creativity that may help build other life skills.

8. Reduced screen time

Children’s brains need stimulation to learn and grow. In times of gadgets and games, children have become addicted to screen time that hampers their brain development. They tend to stay home and not interact with their peers. They become physically unhealthy as they spend hours on the screen. On the other hand, books inspire children to learn and develop, and explore the world around them.

Next Term we will be having a Lamont Book Fair from Monday 8th August to Thursday 11th August. The Book Fair will be open at the following times:

Monday 8th August 8.45am to 9.15am and 3.30pm to 4.30pm

Tuesday 9th August 8.45am to 9.15am and 3.30pm to 4.30pm

Wednesday 10th August 8.45am to 9.15am and 3.30pm to 6.00pm

Thursday 11th August 8.45am to 9.15am and 3.30pm to 4.30pm

The ordering process will be a bit different. All payments will be made online and then the books are collected at school with presentation of the receipt number. There will be more details about this system next term. It does mean that we won’t be needing as many parent helpers. Perhaps just one or two for each session. There will not be any money handling at school.

After the Book Fair is packed up, we will be celebrating Book Week. There will be an Author visit by the wonderful Michael Wagner, a Dress Up Day, a Reading Challenge and the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Shortlisted Books will be on display in the library. It will be a fun filled and exciting week for everyone. The newsletter will be the place where all the details will be announced next term.

A little update on how Virgil has been going. He has met many of the students and has been enjoying the pats and cuddles.

He is now 13 weeks old and has mastered Sit, Drop, Stay and Come. Virgil is a beautiful pup and I feel so lucky to have him for the first year of his life. He loves coming to Kingswood, his second home, and will happily jump into the car when I say “work”.

Wishing you all a safe and restful term break.

Happy Reading.

Stir Crazy Kids