Raising Readers Activity Nights for Families with Young Children coming to Fairfield Public Library

Activities and family time combine for learning and fun in the Raising Readers program, coming to Fairfield Public Library in March. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Jefferson County and the Fairfield Public Library are offering this five week series for families with children ages 3-6, starting on Thursday, March 5.

“We know parents with children this age often wonder how to get their children on a path to be successful in school and become a good reader,” says Courtney Burkhalter, County Director with Jefferson County Extension. “We are excited to share this program because it helps busy parents discover simple ways to help turn everyday routines and experiences into learning opportunities for reading and writing skills.”

The Raising Readers program can help parents prepare their children to succeed in school and gain independence while having fun together as a family. “The kids really love coming to the sessions because they play games and spend time with their parents, while parents are learning and practicing easy techniques to help their children become successful readers and writers,” says Burkhalter.

Five weekly sessions are scheduled for Thursdays, starting March 5. Each session will run from 5:00-6:30 p.m. at the Fairfield Public Library. The program will start out with video lessons for the parents, then each week will feature twelve hands-on activities for parents and children to participate in together. A meal will be furnished each week at the end of the session.

The cost is $5 for the entire program series. To register, contact Sara Martindale, Children’s Services Specialist, at smartindale@fairfield.lib.ia.us or 641-472-6551. This program is a partnership between Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Jefferson County and the Fairfield Public Library. Additional funding is being provided by the Fairfield Kiwanis to help with the cost of the meal.