Nangiloc Reading Discovery receives $1650 grant
14 May 10
Nangiloc Reading Discovery receives $1650 grant
"Reading Discovery" is a family literacy program which seeks to educate parents of children aged 0-5 years. The aim is to build literacy and increase children's social inclusion and emotional development. Volunteers support parents as they read, sing and play with their children. The Nangiloc community has identified through its Community Plan the need for a "Reading Discovery" program in its area.
Now Reading Discovery in Nangiloc is off to a flying start with the support of a grant from Best Start Mildura. The grant will allow the purchase of "themed buckets". The buckets hold age-appropriate books and complementary toys. For example a farmyard bucket would contain books, sheets with songs and finger rhymes, toy farm animals, fences, tractors, natural scenery props and felt or knitted characters. The buckets are essential for volunteers to keep their Reading Discovery sessions varied and interesting.
Best Start is a Victorian government early years initiative. It aims to improve the health, development, learning and wellbeing of all Victorian children (0-8 years). It supports communities, parents and service providers to improve early years services so they are responsive to local needs.
Reading Discovery is supported by Mallee Family Care, an approved Reading Discovery agency. Mallee Family Care recruits and trains volunteers for the program and offers professional development opportunities and ongoing support. There are three trained volunteers in the Nangiloc area. The program will provide weekly home visits, playgroup information sessions and links to other resources in the community. If you are interested in being a Reading Discovery volunteer, or in participating, please contact Rhonda Smith (Reading Discovery Coordinator) on 5021 7478.