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The Gift of Literacy
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If it’s true that a parent is a child’s first teacher, what happens when that parent can’t read or write or even be home to share a simple book? It usually means the child is twice as likely to be illiterate. A United Methodist program in Colorado is giving the gift of literacy this holiday season to inmates and their children. Kim Riemland reports. |
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SCRIPT:
Eighteen-month-old Serenity is doing what many experts say is one of the most important things a child can do – snuggling on her mother’s lap, listening to a good book.
Joaquin Dorrance / Serenity’s Father: “As you flip the page over, you’ll see the letter C.”
The voice she hears is that of her father, Joaquin, even though he is miles away in a Colorado youth offender facility.
Joaquin Dorrance: “This is all I can give her while I’m here, so I’m trying to do everything I can for her while I’m in jail.”
This program is part of SonRise United Methodist Church’s effort to raise the literacy rate of children in high-risk groups. Church members bring books and tape recorders so young fathers, many who are learning to become better readers themselves, can read a story. Then the church sends the book and tape to the child.
Susan Plymell / Pastor, SonRise United Methodist Church: “We talk to them about how important it is to read to the child and how much difference learning to read makes in the life of a child.”
Tiffany Seriano, Serenity’s mother: “I think it is really important that she have the connection; has a bond with him; gets to know his voice. And for him, too; he gets to feel good about his daughter receiving books from him and hearing his voice.”
Joaquin says he’ll continue to send the tapes and books, but plans on being home next Christmas to read to his daughter in person.
Joaquin Dorrance: “I love you very much. Merry Christmas, baby.”
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Pastor Plymell says books, tapes and postage are donated by her congregation and others in the community. The church is currently running three other programs that help at-risk kids become stronger readers.