At Golden Pond School we know that children who are exposed to reading and nursery rhymes are more likely to do well in all areas of academics and develop a love of reading.Our brain-based learning approach tells us that if neurons are used, the become integrated into the brain by connecting to other neurons; if they are not used, they will fade away. It is the experiences in childhood that determine which neurons are used. We provide exciting, multi-layered experiences for our students to integrate neurons into the brain – and this March we are excited to celebrate Read Across America, annual reading and awareness program that encourages reading, and Dr. Suess’s Birthday!
In coordination with Read Across America our students enthusiastically welcome special guest readers all month long in the classrooms. We strongly encourage friends and family to join the classrooms and read to students. A brain is plastic – it grows and changes over a lifetime as it gathers new information. This growth is dependent on our experiences. What a wonderful experience for a child to have their friend or family in the classroom reading
On Dr. Suess’s Birthday the fun begins with teachers wearing red and white striped hats at car line. Then special themed snacks and lots of reading and activities celebrating the beloved Dr. Suess. When children have fun learning – they love to learn! Emotions solidify learning and multi-layered activities embed memories throughout the brain.
Exposure to Nursery Rhymes has been proven to lead to early reading. Mem Fox, writer of children’s books and an educationalist specializing in literacy, states in her book Reading Magic that “Experts in literacy and child development have discovered that if children know 8 nursery rhymes by heart by the time that they are 4 years old, they’re usually among the best readers by the time they’re eight.”
The integrated curriculum at Golden Pond School provides constant exposure to nursery rhymes monthly in all of our programs with a special emphasis in our 3’s and 4’s programs. Our print rich classrooms and daily stories help students master language, communication and speech skills. At GPS the interactive print exposure starts immediately with the daily sign in and exciting Morning Message.
Books are a powerful tool for young children. Reading helps children acclimate to new experiences, strengthens their ability to focus and develops critical thinking skills. Reading to children is one of the most important steps in providing a foundation for academic excellence.
Grab a book, snuggle in and start reading!
