At its heart, reading is about connection—between a reader and a story, a child and their caregiver, and even across generations like in REACH Out & Read Together. But what if we could add another layer to that experience? Enter the Rescue Readers project, a new initiative I'm so excited to introduce to you!
What is Rescue Readers?
The idea behind Rescue Readers is simple: kids "adopt" a stuffed animal that has been "rescued" and restored to find a new, loving home. The catch? These adorable critters need lots of love and, more importantly, they need to be read to for at least 20 minutes a day! It’s a fun way to encourage daily reading habits in children, while also giving them a new cuddly friend who relies on them for story time.
Think of Rescue Readers as a unique twist on the traditional reading challenge, with a focus on creativity, empathy, and fun. With every story read together, these "rescued" stuffed animals feel more and more at home.
Trying It Out Locally
I’m thrilled to be rolling out the Rescue Readers project at a few local events in the coming months to get started. My books, my "zoo' of Rescue Readers and I will be at the North Port Community Yard Sale located at City Hall, 4970 City Hall BLVD, North Port, FL, 34286 on two upcoming dates:
Saturday, September 21, 2024
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saturday, November 02, 2024
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
At these events, I’ll be rehoming Rescue Readers to good homes and each comes with a book to start off their reading connection. If time allows, I’ll even host some impromptu storytimes! I’m also actively seeking out other face-to-face opportunities as well. From community gatherings to local farmers' markets, I’m hoping to bring along a collection of books and stuffed animals ready to be adopted by young readers!
This grassroots approach allows me to gather feedback, see firsthand how kids respond to the concept, and adjust as needed. It's a joy to see little ones light up when they hear they get to “rescue” a plush friend, and it's heartening to watch them proudly commit to their reading challenge.
Exploring Online and Classroom Options
But why stop there? As much as I love these in-person events, I know there are so many more kids who could benefit from the magic of Rescue Readers! That’s why I’m also exploring ways to bring this project online. Imagine signing up for a Rescue Readers program virtually, where kids could select their stuffed animal online, receive it by mail with a book, and share their reading journeys through fun digital challenges and story-sharing sessions.
I’m also in talks with local educators and literacy advocates about how Rescue Readers could find a home in classrooms and at family literacy nights. Imagine the excitement of a class-wide "Rescue Mission," where each student adopts an animal, tracks their reading, and shares their progress with their peers. It could be a great way to build community, foster a love of reading, and engage even reluctant readers.
Join the Adventure!
I can't wait to see where this project goes, and I'm looking forward to all the ways it can grow and evolve. If you’re a teacher, librarian, or literacy advocate, let’s talk! I’d love to collaborate on how we can bring Rescue Readers to your school, library, or organization.
Stay tuned for updates and join me in spreading the joy of reading—one rescued reader at a time!
Comments