kidsREAD Programme- CIP with a difference

The Drum (MRL) is currently involved in a service learning project called the kidsREAD. This programme is a joint project by National Library and the various self-help groups aiming to help children aged 4-6 years old to inculcate good reading habits from young and help them discover the joy of reading.

This programme is carried out every Saturday at Hougang PCF, in which the drummers are volunteer readers who read aloud stories to children and conduct other activities such as craft, games, songs and poetry to enhance to reading programme. During the short one-hour session, Drummers share positive attitudes towards reading to stimulate the childern’s interest in reading, to improve their command of English.

Activities such as coloring help enhance the children’s creativity

Easy as it looks, much time has to be spent on planning the lessons each week, such as selecting and practising reading the books beforehand, and drawing-out interesting activities. Due to the long-term commitment of this project, Drummers have staggered their time, taking turns to help the children.

Kids getting ready for the song-and-dance session

In turn, the Drummers are able to gain satisfaction not only in seeing the children grow in terms of mastering the language, but also helping themselves to develop the love for reading and the joy of interacting with children.

By Gina Tham (guest writer, Vice-president of the Drum)