MUST have background form filled out 1 week prior to event. Email me at enen96@mail.missouri.edu to get the forms. If you have previously filled out background forms for our events with Boys and Girls Club then you don’t have to fill them out again. Be sure to wear school appropriate attire, ask me if you are unsure on this. Arrive 5 minutes early and meet in the main lobby of the school. Be prepared to have fun and feel free to bring children’s books you have (just let me quickly review them before the reading). Instructional notes: Be enthusiastic and silly when reading—increases student motivation and engagement. Use constant encouragement for all students to increase self-efficacy. If the students get antsy, facilitate group discussion over a read aloud. Let all students know they are respected and welcome. Avoid phrases like, “good job!” And “that’s right!” Instead, say things like, “that’s what good readers do!”, “I know you can decode this, but don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it”, “sound it out”, “what do you think this means?” It may be harder to keep the little ones engaged throughout the whole time, so you can ask the other adult volunteers in the room what other activities you can do for the rest of the time, or just come up with something like a simple game or song. It would be beneficial to take the time to get into a share circle before the readings begin, such as when the kids are on the playground, and get to know the kids better- all kids love talking about themselves and it will present an opportunity where thoughts are shared and you can build understanding of students’ background knowledge. This knowledge can be used to inform books you bring from outside of the school.