Open Reading Day

Ban Huay Saeng School, a primary institution committed to the holistic development of its students, has this week started the innovative reading program designed by TWA to engage all school years. The goal of this initiative is to create a communal reading environment where both students and teachers can develop a fondness for books and reading.

Why Reading for Pleasure

Reading for pleasure is vital for creating a brighter future for children. It goes beyond academic achievement, fostering creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. When children read for enjoyment, they develop a love for stories and knowledge, which enhances their cognitive and emotional development. This habit nurtures a lifelong curiosity and a passion for learning, equipping them with the tools to navigate an increasingly complex world. Additionally, reading for pleasure improves language skills, expands vocabulary, and boosts comprehension, giving children a strong foundation for success in all areas of life. By fostering a love for reading, we empower children to become well-rounded, informed, and empathetic individuals, capable of making positive contributions to society. (See article: importance of reading for fun)

The Concept and Goals

The primary objective of Open Reading Day is to establish a stress-free and enjoyable setting where both students and teachers can immerse themselves in the world of books. Given that many at the school have not previously had the opportunity to read for pleasure or participate in reading aloud, this initiative is especially significant. By creating a relaxed environment, the school hopes to ease teachers into the practice of reading aloud without any pressure, allowing them to experience the simplicity and joy of this activity. This approach aims to gradually encourage teachers to better incorporate reading aloud into their regular classroom routines.

Benefits for Teachers

For teachers at the Ban Huay Saeng School, Open Reading Day serves as an eye-opener. Those who have not yet adopted reading aloud in their classrooms will have the chance to observe the positive reactions and enthusiasm of their students during these sessions. This direct exposure is expected to inspire and motivate teachers to embrace reading aloud as a regular classroom activity, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience. Teachers who are already practicing reading aloud will find validation in seeing their students' excitement and engagement, reinforcing the value of their efforts.

Benefits for Students

From the students' perspective, Open Reading Day is a gateway to a world of stories and knowledge. Participation in these sessions allows them to experience the joy of active reading engagement in a communal setting. Exposure to a diverse range of interesting books will gradually foster a motivation for reading among students. This experience aims to build their confidence and skills, ultimately enabling them to access and enjoy literature independently. By immersing students in a vibrant reading culture, the school hopes to implant a lifelong love for books.

The Activities: "Open Reading Sessions" and "Reading Aloud and Storytelling"

To keep the program straightforward and inclusive, the school has named the activities "Open Reading Sessions" or "Reading Aloud and Storytelling" in Thai. This deliberate choice of terminology avoids the potentially intimidating concept of "independent reading," ensuring that teachers understand their active role in the reading experiences of their students. During these sessions, teachers read aloud to students, share stories, and create a dynamic and engaging reading atmosphere.

Expected Outcomes

The long-term vision for Ban Huay Saeng School's reading program is to see a significant development in students' reading skills and habits. By nurturing a positive and enthusiastic attitude towards reading, we will work with the school to aim of cultivating a generation of confident, independent readers. The Open Reading Day initiative is a crucial step in this direction, as it lays the foundation for a vibrant reading culture within the school.