Bennett Elementary Kindergarten teacher Emily Austin said events and programs like this encourage young students to learn to read.
“I think that engaging and fun activities like this are so important because it makes kids enjoy learning, as well as makes them eager to learn to read in order to enjoy these stories,” Austin said. “One of my favorite things about being a Kindergarten teacher is our read alouds. I love to just sit and read to my kids and watch their eyes grow big or their personalities come out in reaction to the stories. I also think story time before bedtime played a huge role in what the students chose to dress up as because they have a personal connection to that story.”
Austin said that in Kindergarten they focus on many different genres of books so that students are immersed in different types of stories.
“Obviously, Kindergarten is such a pivotal foundation for learning and there is a lot to be done and a lot of growth, but adding in these little fun events along the way will make them remember Kindergarten in the brightest way,” Austin said. “Truly the parade shows all the different types of genres and book series that kids grow to love when they learn to read, or their parents read to them at home.”
Austin said that it was exciting for the students and staff to be able to include parents.
“A school and home connection is by far one of the most important things for student success,” Austin said. “Students feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment when they are supported by those they love in things they do at school. We simply just walked the halls and waved, but I had a student comment, ‘I felt so important when they cheered as we walked by.’ It didn't matter if that person was related to them or even knew them, they were very proud to be able to show off what book they loved. I also think having students have those conversations with their parents is important too - why they chose the book and what they wanted to wear. Just fostering the love of learning as well as connection with their parents at such a young age about school.”