READING/ACTIVE LEARNING PROGRAM-2009-2010

November 29, 2009

Although Indigo Threads has had a successful Reading/Active Learning Program at Louyta Primary School with an Indigo Threads supported library for a couple of years, it was our determined projection to bring the same innovative stimulating Program to other primary schools in the District.  Realizing the importance of reading and books in children’s lives, Laotian publishers have successfully developed and published Lao language books for young children.  Few rural schools have access to these books and a school library is a rare.  Books for older students remain limited.

Indigo Threads logistics of transporting numerous library books and craft supplies the long distances to rural schools on a motorbike was resolved.  We needed 2 motorbikes to transport our supplies.  With the support of the Room to Read Organization and Suzanne’s donation, a Friend of Indigo Threads, we have a supply of 500 children’s books.  The books will be donated to the schools that have participated in the Program.

We have been able to present our overwhelmingly praised Reading/Active Learning Program to 7 different primary schools with more then 700 students and teachers participating.  Indigo Threads staff and myself teach the afternoon classes, as an example for teachers to develop their own Program for their students specific needs.  Although books and reading is the focus of this Program, we take the opportunity to discuss health, environment and social issues.  Students play act stories which include exercise.  Large pop-up books with interactive moving parts are some of the students’ favorites (from the US).

We attempt to expose the students to active learning tools and experiences they would not otherwise have.  Classes, particularly hilarious, included the students discovering the wonders of magnifying glasses.  Students do not have the opportunity to draw with crayons and drawing paper as they are considered a luxury item, therefore, each class includes color drawing.  Many of you may have received an Indigo Threads holiday greeting postcard, postal or virtually, drawn by the students from level 1-5 during our classes.  We encourage each student with praise and attention, despite their artistic ability.

Indigo Threads Reading/Active Learning Program has great potential in influencing these student’s lives, today and the future.  We look forward to our continued commitment to make this Program available.

Good wishes for good healthy and happiness from Mary D. Meyer/Executive Director at mdmeyer@indigothreads.org

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