Kids, teens dig into reading

Valley Stream students kept their minds sharp this summer, reading thousands of books even as they had a two-month break from school.

The Henry Waldinger Memorial Library hosted its annual summer reading program and the theme was “Dig Into Reading.” Throughout the summer, there were numerous programs, along with incentives for kids and teenagers to read.

Children’s librarian Jaclyn Kunz said 340 kids completed the summer reading requirements, which were different for each age group. Older children had to read fewer, but more complicated books. They also had to read on their own, while younger kids were able to share stories with their parents.

Marjorie Hilaire, 9, said she read 19 books this summer, most of which she too out from the library. Her favorite was “The Chalk Box Kid” by Clyde Robert Bulla. Next, she hopes to read some of the books from the “Diary of Wimpy Kid” series.

Hilaire, who will be entering fifth grade at Holy Name of Mary School, said reading will give her a head start for the upcoming year. “When you read a lot,” she said, “it’s fun to know that you’re learning more.”

Arvind Gajraj, 4, is just learning to read. He spent much of the summer sharing books with his mother, Nirvana. They would read together every morning, and again before bedtime.

Nirvana Gajraj said it was a way for the two to bond, and she enjoyed hearing Arvind’s thoughts after she was done reading each book to him. Together, they visited the library at least twice a week over the summer to take out books.

Ian Berrell, 6, also read a lot this summer. He said he likes Dr. Seuss books and loves visiting the library. “I get to read lots and lots and lots of books,” he said, “and take out movies, too.”

This was his second year taking part in the summer reading program, but it was his first time doing some reading on his own. Still, he read with his mother every night before going to sleep.

Children who completed the requirements were invited to one of two programs last week. On Aug. 19, Jason Reilly from Green Meadows Farm brought a variety of creatures to the library for children to meet including bugs, reptiles and furry animals. The kids were able to touch the animals and learn about their habits.

Berrell said he enjoyed touching the cockroaches and worms. “It was cool,” he said.

Darlene Graham hosted a musical story program on Aug. 20.

Throughout the summer, children earned points for their respective school by reading books and attending programs. The school with the most points will be awarded the coveted Waldinger Cup, which so far has only been won by the Wheeler Avenue and Clear Stream Avenue schools.

Yanelia Fernandez, 10, who attends Clear Stream, said she believes her school has a good chance to repeat as champions. She noted that she ran into several of her classmates at the library over the past two months.

During the summer, Fernandez said she read for about an hour each day, though she lost track of the number of books she read. “Number the Stars” was her favorite. She particularly enjoys reading realistic fiction, as well as fantasy and adventure books.

Kunz revised the summer reading club this year to focus more on literacy skills. And, instead of just writing reports on the books they read, children were allowed to express their thoughts in other ways, such as by drawing or singing.

The library also hosted a summer reading program for young adults. Teens had to read three full-length books this summer and 67 students completed the assignment. They were invited to play a round of mini-golf at Hendrickson Park last Friday evening.