Families as reading role models – fostering a love of reading in Years 7-10
Gia Park of Year 9 shared this reflection of her experience taking part in the program last year:
‘The OpenBook reading program was a thoughtful and engaging activity that gave us the opportunity to read together as a family. Selecting the book was enjoyable, as it allowed us to explore each other’s interests and preferences before settling on a book that we were all excited about. The experience itself was meaningful, giving us time to reflect on the book’s ideas before discussing them as a group. Listening to my family members’ interpretations made the story feel richer and easier to understand the difficult moments in the book. It was exciting to hear from different perspectives.
‘In conclusion, it was an effective way to turn reading into a shared family experience and a valuable way to spend our spare time.’
Families with students in Years 7-10 are again invited to participate in OpenBook during the winter break. OpenBook – What will we discover?… is a buddy reading program for families to promote reading and conversation. Interested families are invited to sign up and choose a book from a robust selection centred around three key themes:
- Stories of finding courage
- Stories of growing up and finding your identity
- Stories of hope, resilience and joy.
Two copies of your chosen book will be sent home in a complimentary book bag, with discussion points to promote conversation and observation. It’s a chance to have a shared experience with your child; one that encourages connections and a great sense of belonging. Think of it as a family book club.
We have a selection of novels for all types of readers: avid, reluctant, discerning, for families to promote reading for pleasure at home through engaging with reading as a source of entertainment. Families who engage in shared reading experiences with their children see reading as more than skill building, but as an opportunity to spend valued time together, to talk and develop a positive bond.
Remember, that sometimes it only takes 20 minutes a day of reading to see a difference in the way your child engages with the world. What a better way for them to experience that than with you part of that journey.
When Term 3 resumes, students will be asked to return the novels and discussion cards, however, the bookbag remains with you as a small gift. At the start of Term 3 we will also hold an afternoon tea for participants to talk about their experiences and books.
Please watch out for the letter and Google form that has been sent out via the Parent Lounge for those interested to sign up. The form is also available here.
Please feel free to contact the library team if you have questions.
Susan Lombardo
Head of Library 5-12
