Summer Reading Program Connects Kids with Books and Community
We know it’s already autumn, but we could not go on without shouting out one of CVRAN’s favorite annual offerings – the Summer Reading Program! This summer we brought together 14 local children and an equal number of volunteers for a season of learning, laughter, and connection. Over several weeks, each child met with their reading partner, building confidence and literacy skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. The primary focus is reading, using books generously donated by Bear Pond Books and the Kellogg Hubbard Library and chosen by each volunteer based on the child’s interests. Educational websites and even words found on street signs during walks around town provided other material to boost literacy.
But the program is about much more than just reading. Reading partners explored creative ways to engage with language and learning, making personalized booklets, crafting journals, and using sidewalk chalk to write stories and practice new words. Some partners turned their reading sessions into research adventures using kid-friendly websites like Fact Monster and Kiddle, while others supplemented reading time with games, puzzles, or drawing activities that helped reinforce vocabulary and comprehension.
Each pair was encouraged to explore Montpelier and surrounding areas as part of their sessions. They visited places like Bear Pond Books, the library, the Montpelier pool, Morse Farm, and even the local fire station. Reading often continued in less expected spots, like the State House lawn or the bike shop, helping children see literacy as something that lives beyond the classroom or page. Along the way, there were plenty of shared snacks, friendly dogs, and spontaneous conversations with neighbors – experiences that helped kids feel more rooted in their community.
Volunteers described the experience as deeply rewarding. Sara L. shared how the regularity of the program provided comfort to her reading partner: “She thrives on routine,” she noted. Sara also commented that by the end, a child who said she didn’t like books was reading. It became their “weekly special time” where they spent “many wonderful hours together.” Another volunteer, Deborah M., echoed the positive impact: “We’ve built a really positive connection,” she said. Paired with her reading partner for over a year, they’ve shared countless “mini adventures” around town. “Honestly, I’ve benefitted more than I’ve given,” she added.
Whether riding bikes, identifying birds with the Merlin app, or simply sharing ice cream after a good read, this program gave children a chance to grow both academically and socially. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, each child had a consistent, caring presence to help them explore books and the world around them. A special thank you must go to the program’s co-organizers – Amy Ehrlich and Paige Gebhardt – without whom this opportunity would not have been possible. As this program’s founder in 2023, we are so appreciative of Amy’s years of dedicated leadership and excited to have Paige step in to take the lead next year. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made this summer such a rich and rewarding experience, and we look forward to keeping the magic going next year and beyond!