Virginia Beach Public Library Winter Reading Program, Feb. 1 – March 1
If you have children under the age of 6, Virginia Beach Public Library invites you to sign up for its Winter Reading Program for young children, “Snuggle Up with Peter Rabbit.” The one-month program encourages parents and caregivers to read aloud with their children, at home or in the library. It’s free, it’s fun, and best of all, reading aloud with your child for as little as 20 minutes a day can build a foundation for lifelong achievement.
To participate in the Winter Reading Program, register at any Virginia Beach Public Library beginning Monday, Feb. 1. Your child will receive a reading log and a sticker sheet to track the books you read together through Monday, March 1. (There is no minimum reading requirement). To recognize participation in the program, your child’s first name will be posted in a library display.
Why is reading aloud so important?
The benefits of reading aloud with young children are well known to educators and librarians. It strengthens the bond between parent and child and helps children develop learning skills needed for healthy development and success in school. It’s never too early (or late) to make reading a daily habit.
Children’s author Mem Fox says:
“The best time to start reading aloud to a baby is the day it is born. The lilting rhythm of a simple bedtime book on the first thrilling, exhausting day is soothing for the tremulous parents and the new child and adds to the bond between them. It gives them something to ‘talk about’ together. And much to the surprise of most adults, babies love books. They respond to the brightness of the pictures, to the rhythm of the words, and the presence of a loving adult.”
Whether you have a newborn or a 5-year-old, Virginia Beach Public Library staff are happy to help you find age-appropriate books to read aloud with your child.
Just hop over to the library nearest you!
*Artwork for the program is used with permission of the Frederick Warne & Co. Any public library in Virginia may use the image of Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail on their website to promote the Winter Reading Program.