Toddlers Reading Programme moves to Region Three
DPI, GUYANA, Wednesday, February 28, 2018
The Ministry of Social Protection, on Wednesday, launched its Back-to-Basic Toddlers Reading Programme at the Den Amstel Health Centre. The reading programme aims to develop and foster an early interest in books in children by encouraging parents to read to them.
Some of the children from Den Amstel Daycare Centre viewing the book.
In brief remarks, Registration and Licensing Officer (RLO) Zalika Williams, said it has been recognised that many young children do not know how to read. “We (ministry) realised that we can target this at the earliest stage and if we do target it at the earliest stage, it can help to mediate the social problems that we are engage in, on a daily basis with our children,” the RLO explained.
She emphasised the initiative will help the children to develop greater general knowledge, expand their vocabulary and become more cognitive.
Williams also urged parents to not only to take a number when attending the health centre but to take a book to read to their child during their waiting time.
“This means, you need to pick up a book to read to your child after taking a number to be attended by the doctor and we all know that it does take some time to be evaluated by the doctor”, the RLO noted.
Assistant Regional Executive Officer (AREO) Shameer Arjune noted that the initiative will be an effective tool, as the government works towards addressing the literacy issues faced country wide.
The AREO stated that the administration will join the effort to extend the programme regionally as he urged the parents to be their child’s first teachers.
Books that were on display for the children to read.
Zalika Williams, Registration and Licensing Officer (RLO) attached to Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), Ministry of Social Protection.
A section of the crowd at the Den Amstel Health centre.
By: Neola Damon