MATAWAN–Creating a space for children to build confidence and become better readers, the Matawan-Aberdeen Public Library holds its weekly “Reading Buddies” program.
Head of Youth Services Leslie Kotzas said that the Reading Buddies program pairs Matawan Regional High School English National Honor Society (ENHS) students with elementary school students to work on their reading skills.
“The Matawan-Aberdeen school district encourages students to read every night for 20 minutes and Reading Buddies works to help meet this goal,” Kotzas said. “This program also enables ENHS students to earn volunteer hours towards their commitment to the ENHS program.”
Kotzas said that the program was started in October of 2018.
“We encourage elementary-age students to participate, ages five and up; however, some participants have been pre-readers and had the ENHS students read to them,” Kotzas said.
Kotzas said that approximately 50 ENHS students participate in the Reading Buddies program.
This program takes place at 4:30-5:30 p.m. every Monday in the Children’s Department at the Matawan-Aberdeen Public Library, which is located at 165 Main St.
“Children should sign up if they need some help with their reading skills. They should also sign up if they want a fun way to read with someone who is not their parent or teacher,” Kotzas said. “Reading with a teenager is a great non-judgmental way for kids to build confidence with their reading. Also, it provides a reading role model for children.”
For more information, about the Reading Buddies program visit www.matawanaberdeenlibrary.com/main.php or call 732-583-9100.
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
