BY: BRANDON CONDA, STORYTELLING INTERN
As part of my internship at Words Alive, I had the pleasure of visiting Mrs. Zimman and her wonderful first-grade students at Escondido’s Central Elementary School. I was thrilled to attend the final Read Aloud Program session of the school year. In the Read Aloud Program, a volunteer comes into the classroom each week to read with the students for 30 fun and engaging minutes. This session was led by Words Alive volunteer Lynne Rossman.
The room buzzed with excitement since it was the last session of the year. The moment Lynnee walked in, students ran up with big smiles and happy hugs. They handed her a colorful thank you poster that was full of kind words and love. In return, Lynnee surprised each child with a heart-shaped paper full of special words just for them!
Lynne started the session by introducing the book Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival. This book delivers a heartfelt story about coping with anxiety. Before starting the book, Lynne engaged the students by asking questions and warmly encouraging students to share their feelings and thoughts.
The room filled with wonder each time she turned a page. Eyes wide and alert, the children leaned forward to follow Ruby's adventure with her persistent big yellow worry. Lynne’s compassionate and energetic voice made the story come alive for everyone listening.
To celebrate their final Read Aloud Program session of the year, students received fun packages containing a pencil pouch stocked with colorful pencils along with erasers and sharpeners. The thoughtful little gifts proved to be excellent tools for inspiring creativity and extending learning beyond classroom walls.
Then came the moment everyone least expected…
Just as everyone thought the celebration was wrapping up, Lynne announced a special giveaway from Words Alive: Every student received their own copy of Ruby Finds a Worry to add to their personal library! The room erupted into gasps and cheers when students learned about the news. The students showed their excitement by hugging their books and showing it off to their classmates.
Words Alive helps kids develop a love for reading while building community bonds through its programs. This session demonstrated the powerful effect of stories and storytellers uniting together. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to witness and be part of an amazing program!
Interested in becoming a volunteer reader? Click here to learn more!
www.wordsalive.org/becomeavolunteer