We are Strong Readers!

This week the Cottontails have been talking about ways we will become strong readers. The students are so excited to take such a big step in learning how to read. We brainstormed activities strong readers do and we discussed three ways strong readers read (1. Read the Pictures, 2. Read the Words, 3. Retell the Story). After each class discussion, the Cottontails were given the opportunity to pick a book and a special quiet place to read and practice becoming strong readers. This week we took three or four minutes to practice being strong readers. While the class is reading quietly, and independently, it is their goal to immerse their whole selves into their story being able to tune out all distractions creating their own quiet reading environment for themselves. As the school year progresses our quiet reading times will grow minute by minute, bit by bit. The Cottontails excitement to read is breathtaking. Photos coming soon!

Ms. Kathy, Iowa City's children's librarian, paid a visit to the Cottontail classroom on Friday. This first visit marked the beginning of her monthly story times with the Kindergarten class. It is a monthly ritual that the students grow to love and enjoy. At this month's visit, Ms. Kathy read books and talked about the importance of applying for a library card. With our monthly field trips to the Iowa City Public Library it is important that you set aside an upcoming evening to help your child journey through the momentous occasion of obtaining their first library card. Please look for a library card application (and other fun handouts) to go home in your child's take home folder on Monday. Fill out the application, make a trip to the library, and help your child get their FIRST library card. This is an activity that Cottontails always look forward to! When your child gets their library card, don't forget to stop by the Children's Library desk so they can get a FREE book to celebrate their new library card.

Does your child already have a library card? If so, great! Make sure to still stop by the Children's Library desk to receive your child's FREE book.

A September date will soon be set for our first field trip to the library. Please make sure that your child has their library card before this date. It is an important part of their monthly trip to the library.

Thank you for all your help in encouraging your child to embrace a new love for reading as they strengthen their own reading skills.