Summer is here and there is a great opportunity for some fun learning across Barton County. The idea for StoryWalk was shared at an Extension update last August and several of my colleagues in surrounding counties wanted to bring it to this area. A small grant provided funds to purchase the materials for StoryWalk and now we are ready to take it on the road.
A story, suitable for young readers has been laminated and attached to board signs that can be spaced in a grassy area. StoryWalk participants can meander around the grassy area, getting some exercise while reading the book. The first book we are sharing in Barton County is titled, “Handa’s Surprise.” It’s a fun book about a little girl who goes on a walk, taking her friend Akeyo some fruit. Since the book talks about many different types of fruit we will have several bite sized fruit samples at the end of the book. If your child has never tasted fresh mango you may want to join us on StoryWalk.
The schedule for StoryWalk is as follows:
• Wednesday, June 15, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the My Backyard Playground, 2715 18th Street in Great Bend. We will be set up as an activity during the Imagination Playground experience.
• Monday, June 20, 11 a.m. at the Great Bend Public Library.
• Tuesday, June 21 from 9:30 -10-30 a.m. at the Claflin Library on main street Claflin.
• Wednesday, June 22, 1 p.m. at the Hoisington Library
• Thursday, June 23, 9:30 a.m. at the Ellinwood Library
I have enlisted the help of some of my Program Development Committee members and 4-H members to assist with this program. I will have access to seven more books over the next year or two while we encourage children to read while they learn about nutrition and physical activity.
I hope to see you and your young children at StoryWalk!
Donna Krug is the Family and Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research & Extension – Barton County. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu