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Summer Literacy Program begins: “Read, Learn, Go!”

Wed, 06/24/2009 - 13:12 — anastasiar

A rainy Friday on June 19, 2009 marked the first day of CMAAs Summer Family Literacy Program, called “Read, Learn, Go!”. Connie Chang, the Family Literacy Coordinator, brightened the rather wet morning with free breakfast for the children, from 6 to 12 years of age. As the children settled, Connie introduced the four youth volunteers helping out through the duration of the program, which runs until August 22.

After discussing some of the important topics that will be highlighted during the program, including bike safety, personal hygiene, internet safety, and literacy, Connie introduced the guest speaker for the day. Dr. Magane Koshimura from University of Illinois Extension, an education outreach organization based in Cook County, introduced the summer campers to Japan and Japanese culture. The children learned some basic geography, as well as how to greet each other in Japanese and how to distinguish between the three types of traditional bows. Following this foray into Japanese culture, Dr. Koshimura continued by teaching the participants how to make origami birds and boxes. The participants were sent home early due to inclement weather with a packet of Japanese Lotte Koala cookies for each child.
 
oragami

Connie emphasized that the goal of the Summer Literacy Program is to create a structured and happy environment during the next two months. The program involves parents with the literacy of their children through workshops directed towards both parents and children, as well as field trips to museums and parks during which parents and children are encouraged to engage in learning and exploration together. The following day’s field trip was to the Garfield Conservatory. Future field trips include the Chicago’s Children Museum, the Chicago History Museum, the Mitsuwa Supermarket, and Ravinia Park, among other locations.

Registration for the Summer Literacy Program is still open until full, and accepts children from the 1st through 6th grade levels.  Registration must take place in person at the CMAA center. Please contact Connie Chang at 773.784.2900 ext. 113 with any questions.