West Liberty-Salem second graders from Mrs. Bell’s class attended Green Hills on Friday morning to read to residents! This inter-generational project allows our students to practice reading out loud while increasing social skills, creating better self-esteem, and promoting a foundation in community service. Studies suggest that for older adults, this program improves their overall sense of well being and gives a sense of purpose. Generally speaking, older adults are more available and patient and those characteristics provide a welcoming and less scary environment for young readers to practice public speaking.
Students from each second grade class will visit Green Hills Retirement Community twice this school year. They usually read two books to two different residents during their visits and will get a chance to meet at least four new friends this year! It is always heart warming to see our students and residents remember each other during subsequent visits. We look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come!
(Pictured are Kipton Crowder and Kayla Schwaderer reading to their new friends at Green Hills.)