By DONNA SPUGNARDI

Elementary Librarian

Students in kindergarten through grade six and their families will be excited to learn that the Lewiston School Department has obtained a grant through the national Reading is Fundamental Program. This grant makes all elementary children eligible to receive three books to take home and share with their families over the course of the year. The first distribution of books will take place in the libraries during Children’s Book Week in November. Each child will choose a book to keep from a wide variety of books displayed in the library. This can motivate students to become better readers as they challenge themselves to read books they have personally selected. These books can begin a home library or add to an existing one. Literacy experts agree that having books and other reading materials in the home is a key factor in school achievement.

There are many other ways that parents can help children strengthen their reading habits. Take the time to read to your children or listen as they read aloud to you. Be a reading model, and share some of your favorite books with your child. Lifelong habits start at an early age, so encourage your child to read for pleasure. Act out parts of a book or dress as your favorite book character for a day. Show your children that reading can be rewarding and FUN!