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Campfire sparks interest in reading
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Madeline Dunchak reads children a variety of camping stories during the Austintown library's Gather Around the Campfire event on June 27.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.No one wanted to be caught with the hot potato during the Gather Around the Campfire event at the Austintown library that was held on June 27.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Children and parents prepared to sing and read together during the Gather Around the Campfire event held at the Ausitntown library on June 27.
By EARTHA TERRELL
The Austintown library created a full-fledged outdoor experience for children during the summer reading program event titled Gather Around the Campfire June 27.
“We chose to gather by the campfire because this year’s summer reading program theme is “Dream Big” and most of the kids who participate live in the city, so we thought we’d give them a taste of what it would be like to be in the woods,” said Austintown library Assistant Supervisor Madeline Dunchak.
Tales of adventures in the woods kept childrens’ attention as they huddled around Dunchak to hear her every word.
“I liked it because my son has never been camping and it gave him a good experience of what it would be like and it’s a chance for him to get with other children,” said parent Susan Santiago.
From activities like making dream catchers and s’mores out of paper and glue to a fishing activity, children loved the opportunity to explore their imaginations, make friends and have fun.
Dunchak hoped the experience would entice children to seek more information and read about some of the camping activities and animals they learned about during the event. The library reading program will continue throughout the end of August. Children can register at any time to participate.
“It’s a very rewarding experience to see a child participate in summer reading and it’s enjoyable for them and engaging,” Dunchak said.