“Our Bookshelf,” virtual program for parents of preschoolers, to be offered locally in February
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Cherokee County is offering “Our Bookshelf,” a 4-week virtual program for parents of preschoolers. The program focuses on a research-based reading technique called dialogic reading, which is designed to increase prereading skills in children aged 3-6.
“Are you the parent of a preschooler? Did you know parents can prepare their children to read by reading to them? Research shows that preschoolers who are exposed to lots of language through books and conversations have greater academic success,” according to Debbie Erpelding, Cherokee County Youth Coordinator with ISU Extension and Outreach.
Each week parents will receive a book to share with their child and an accompanying parent reading guide. Additionally, for 30 minutes each week, parents will engage virtually with other parents in an interactive and informational session. During these sessions, parents will learn about planning for daily reading times, reading aloud, having conversations about language and books, extending language learning through play, and using literacy interactions to pave their child’s way for future success as a reader in a school setting.
The virtual sessions will be held from 8 to 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 11, 18, 25 and March 3 via Zoom. The course is offered free-of-charge and is sponsored by the Cherokee County Extension Council and ISU Extension and Outreach.
“We hope you’ll get the kids tucked into bed and then join us for a quick 30-minute learning session,” Erpelding said.
To register, contact Debbie at 712-225-6196 or email deberp@iastate.edu.