Junior School Resource Centre
There are some days that are quintessential experiences and you know you are witness to a special moment. The shared picture book morning late last term between the Year 2's and 12's was one of these moments. On this day, the Year 12's bring from home their favourite childhood picture book to read to their Year 2 buddy. The Year 2's choose their favourite book from the library picture book collection to share with their Year 12 buddy.
It was a clear demonstration of the importance that books and being read to as a young child has had on many of the Year 12's. They proudly shared with the their Year 2 buddies well worn books, many of these containing language techniques common to picture books, such as repetition and rhyming. The joys and suspense as pages turned was evident in both the young and older boys' faces.
For the adults present it was a tangible reminder not to under estimate the interactions that sharing a book can give. The opportunity for physical closeness and sharing of messages and life lessons that are embedded into the story.
When assisting the Year 2's with choosing books to share with their Year 12 buddy, it was easy to see that some boys had developed favourite titles and authors. During book selection each fortnight, I often ask the boys to choose one item that they think Mum or Dad would enjoy reading with them. This could be a picture books or a beginning chapter book to share. My hope is that the boys are sharing these books with you and creating shared reading memories.
Happy Reading
Mrs Kathryn Salt
Junior School Teacher-Librarian
