Dads are the feature story at Hands Across the Sea this Father’s Day!

Pamelus Burke Government School in St. Vincent invited Enna Bullock, Literacy Link, to join the teachers as they hosted “Dad Read to Class Day” last week. The students were thrilled to hear their fathers read their favorite stories to their class and show off their own collection of books at school. It was a huge success and a memorable day for all. 

Meanwhile, Lize Bardouille, Literacy Link, is helping kids find creative ways to celebrate Father’s Day in Dominica. She is working with students this week to write and illustrate their own unique stories to gift the special men in their lives. The children are all so excited to present their original work to their loved ones this weekend. Drawing, writing, and singing are all ways to enhance a love of reading and understanding stories; the Literacy Links serving all Hands Across the Sea libraries work hard to fine unique new ways to inspire a passion for reading among the children.

While it is heartwarming to see these kids celebrate a love of reading with their dads, these activities are also providing long-term benefits to their overall wellbeing. According to a recent article in NPR, “reading aloud can help people with stress management, hope and resilience”. They go on to report “reading with your child is a practice that creates space for deeper independent learning and exploring. It doesn’t matter if it’s a traditional book, graphic novel, non-fiction or historical fiction, it all counts. What matters most is taking the time to dive deeper. Reading aloud is one of the few spaces that checks all the boxes in terms of social, emotional and mental health. The simple act of sharing your love of reading with your child is bigger than just literacy. It’s another expression of love and a tool for helping kids navigate the world.”

Hands Across the Sea is proud to partner with families through the joy of reading!