1000 Books Before Kindergarten Initiative Kicks Off in Ellington

The Ellington School Readiness Council is launching a new initiative in town called “1000 Books Before Kindergarten.” The campaign’s goal is to encourage and support parents and caregivers to read 1000 books to children before they enter Kindergarten. Participants can register for the program at Hall Memorial Library and will be given information on how to enroll, how to log their readings and how to receive incentives along the way.

To kick off this great initiative, singer/song writer, co-author of the Pete the Cat Books, and the co-founder of The Learning Groove, Michael Levine will present a free early childhood teacher workshop from 9:30-11:00 AM on March 16th followed by a free community event for children and families from 12:30-2:00 PM at the Center School Gymnasium, 49 Main St.

Mr. Michael's presentation to teachers is fun, inspirational and practical. He will share some interactive songs and stories that teachers may use the next day. No musical experience is necessary. Michael shows how traditional techniques such as call and response, repetition and creative movement are applied in everyday lesson, classroom management and transitions. He will demonstrate the connection to reading , writing and language development and how they relate to the CT ELDS. Register to attend by emailing tgiordano@ellington-ct.gov

In the second session from 12:30-2:00 PM children, teachers and parents can sing, dance, shake, laugh, wiggle and learn together as Mr. Michael gets silly with his guitar. On stage he shares his music and storytelling inspiration with children as they sing interactive songs and Pete the Cat stories together. Mr. Michael uses the latest hip-hop technology to demonstrate how interactivity can make reading and music awesome for kids. Register to attend by emailing tgiordano@ellington-ct.gov