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Donna's Book Bag 2

Donna’s Book Bag...

Dear Friends,

From June through August, Raising A Reader families, program partners, and staff are meeting in public spaces throughout Massachusetts to share books, do fun activities, and, of course, eat snacks! While each Story Time in the Park is a pleasant and lighthearted affair, it is fun with a purpose. I’d like to quickly share just what makes Story Time in the Park an important part of our work supporting families in need across the Commonwealth.

  1. Story Time in the Park makes Raising A Reader accessible to the broadest possible audience. We conduct targeted outreach to Raising A Reader partners and families to encourage attendance within the key areas we serve. Equally important, we ensure that every session is held in a centrally located park and is free and open to the public.
  2. Learning is often sidelined during the summer, as vacation and staff transitions prevent many programs from continuing throughout the warmer months. Maintaining enthusiasm for reading all year round is critical for young learners. Story Time in the Park is a warm, welcoming and engaging program that appeals to children and adults alike.
  3. Story Time in the Park creates an opportunity for Raising A Reader Program Coordinators to model effective dialogic reading practices, and for parents to receive additional messaging about the importance of reading. Although the atmosphere is relaxed, valuable information is communicated to parents and their children.

Thanks to support from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Story Time in the Park begins with a Raising A Reader MA Program Coordinator sharing a book with the audience, followed by a related activity and a healthy treat. Additionally, each child leaves with their own copy of the book to bring home and share with their family. The benefit of such seemingly simple exercises is remarkable – they strengthen the communities we serve and cultivate an excitement for reading. If you’d like to join us, please visit our Events page for a Story Time in the Park near you.