School READING/RECREATION PROGRAM

April 3, 2008

Surprisingly, four boxes of slightly used children’s Laotian folktale books were found stored in a dusty corner.  Other then the mice, no one had looked through these lost treasures for a longtime. Text books have been the only source of books students were familiar with.  Often, teachers instruct from a single available text book.   What an exciting find!

This was a perfect opportunity for INDIGO THREADS to develop a school reading room for the students.  With a special donation, the room was furnished with colorful bookshelves, ethnic hand woven indigo wall hangings, craft tables and bright multi colored floor mates.  Boldly illustrated primary English books were added to the collection of Laotian folktales. Wide eyed students anxiously peered through the windows while books were being organized on shelves. A whole new world opened up to one hundred thirty students who had never before had the opportunity to discover the joy of reading books.  Observing these excited students handling each book so carefully, mouthing each word out loud and touching the pictures as if they were alive, one soon realizes it takes so little effort to make a difference in these children’s lives.

Since creating the reading room,  INDIGO THREADS has developed a Reading/Recreation Program staffed by INDIGO THREADS.  With this kind of student interest and enthusiasm, it was the only logical next step.   One day a week stories are read to the students, students choose books to read on their own, a simple story is acted out with group participation, one English word is taught in exchange for one Lao word, physical exercise, craft or drawing project, social or hygiene issues addressed and finishing with a special treat. Until more books can be added to the program, the books must remain at school.

Because of the success and interest in our pilot program, INDIGO THREADS  is developed a ’roving’ Reading/Recreation Program, anticipating participation of 12 additional primary schools.  Our intent is for teachers to follow our lead, developing their own specific programs for their students.  Additional Lao language books are needed to fulfill our needs.

A Northern Laos based and owned project has recently started publishing Lao language books, making it fun for children to read, access information, develop their imagination and increase literacy.  Until, now, few books were published in their language. A $220.00 donation would allow us to purchase 200 Lao language books to add to our Reading/Recreation Program   For more information regarding Laotian language books www.bigbrothermouse.com

For more information contact Mary D. Meyer/President-Director

www.indigothreads.org              mdmeyer@indigothreads.org

- 30 -