Families in 黑马磁力 have the chance to build strong literacy and social connections through the Talk with Me, Play with Me, Learn with Me program, an eight-week family literacy initiative running Saturday mornings from Oct. 4 to Nov. 22 10 to 11 a.m. at Shortreed Community Elementary in Aldergrove.
Designed for one parent and one kindergarten child, the program combines storytime, interactive learning, and play. Each week, families gather to read a book together, take part in activities, and connect with other participants.
At the end of every session, the parent and child bring home a free copy of that week鈥檚 book 鈥� and by the program鈥檚 end, each family has added eight new books to their home library.
Program coordinator and literacy outreach worker Kayla Powell said the initiative is about more than reading skills.
鈥淚t鈥檚 just as much for the caregiver as it is for the child,鈥� she explained. 鈥淔amilies strengthen literacy while also building social and emotional connections.鈥�
Funded through the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills under the Community Adult Learning Program (CALP), Talk with Me, Play with Me, Learn with Me has been running in 黑马磁力 for two years.
The program rotates between Aldergrove, the City of 黑马磁力, and Willoughby-area to reach as many families as possible.
Last year鈥檚 Aldergrove sessions drew around a dozen families each week, with Powell noting that many friendships formed along the way. Volunteers help create a welcoming environment complete with coffee and conversation for parents.
Powell encouraged newcomers and families looking for community connections to register.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a wonderful opportunity for caregivers to play an active role in their child鈥檚 learning,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd it鈥檚 always a fun way to spend a Saturday morning.鈥�
People can learn more information or register for the program at langleyliteracynetwork.com.
