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Frogtown
Como
Frogtown
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When I was young, my mother would take me out of the house on weekends and during the summer. Among the amazing places we would visit were libraries, museums, and community literacy spaces. I remember being so excited as I walked in between the shelves and halls and combed through the many colorful books. It was so exhilarating being in spaces where I was able to learn while having fun at the same time.
Spaces such as these are where a child’s love for literacy is cultivated. Frequent visits to such spaces, which are usually free of charge, deepen a child’s love for reading.
Library spaces, in addition to lending books and providing a conducive environment for reading, serve as hubs where child and family-focused programming is undertaken.
These specially designed programs are at no cost. Programs run by libraries include, but are not limited to:
• Story time
• Summer reading programs
• Access to digital collections
• Academic tutoring
• Technology camps
My experience as an intern at the Science Museum of Minnesota in my formative years was pivotal in my literacy development. Museums are informative and serve as a window for children to learn more about their community’s history as well as that of other communities. Studies have shown that children categorize museums as spaces with unique and special things, and they seek to visit such spaces if the exhibits are of interest to them. Museums have something of interest for the entire family, from dinosaurs to historical artifacts.
A space like the Science Museum of Minnesota is a place where culture, science, and history intersect. This is a wonderful storytelling opportunity as children embark on self-guided tours and interact with museum staff. Children may have limited prior knowledge of the stories behind the exhibits, making for a more engaging and interactive visit.
Where Are the Literacy Spaces in My Community?
First Educators build a solid foundation for a child’s learning journey by connecting with literacy spaces. This journey starts in your neighborhood. You might have walked past these spaces but completely overlooked them.
• The Little Free Library on your corner – why don’t you wander into it? These libraries are usually free literacy spaces where we find neighborhood book-sharing boxes. Here you can pick up a book and also share books with your community.
• Sign your children up for reading clubs and literacy workshops such as the Leaders Are Readers program, which is every first Saturday at Jimmy Lee Recreation Center, hosted by Planting People Growing Justice in partnership with the JK Movement.
• There are Black-owned bookstores in our communities; Black Garnet, Strive, and Babycake’s Book Stack are examples. These stores host book signings, author readings, and other literacy events.
• First Educators may search the internet for literacy events near them. There are a host of events happening all year round that will be beneficial for the entire family.
Turning Every Outing into a Literacy Experience
Before every outing, assign a reading project to your child. It could be reading a story about a local hero or picking up a book detailing the history of your community. The assignment would encourage the child to be attentive and remain engaged. Again, First Educators should guide their children but allow them to browse and choose freely. When children choose a book that piques their interest, they are most likely going to read it.
The project should not be the end of the literary experience. First Educators should follow up at home. The children should be prompted to share their experiences with other members of their household. Another way to continue the engagement is to suggest that the child keep a journal detailing their experiences.
Call to Action
Participation is everything. First Educators are challenged to include a minimum of one visit a month to a literacy space, be it the new museum or the library around the corner, or a community event. Some believe reading at home and in school are the only contributions towards literacy. Bringing your child to storytelling spaces sends messages that cannot be taught in formal environments. Getting out of your home and indulging your family in the community literacy spaces around you will leave a lasting impression on our youth.
Enjoy these free literacy learning activities this summer:
• Book It (earn pizzas for reaching summer learning goals)
• Red Balloon Bookshop Wednesday Storytime (meet authors and participate in learning activities)
• Barnes and Noble Summer Reading program (earn free books)
Through her organization, Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute, Dr. Artika Tyner offers resources to foster literacy and education.
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