Fifth-grade parents and their children recently participated in a page-turner of a project: a book talk!

“We are always looking for ways to involve parents in the Lower School,” said Grade 5 Teacher Heidi Bailey, who teamed up with colleagues Ron Coles and Emily Oliff to plan the get-together. “We thought it would be fun to have parents share the books that were their favorites as fifth graders.” 

The Setting
Parents wrote reviews of their cherished books, and on September 22, they joined students and faculty in the Lower School library. Lower School Librarian Carlee Smith had decorated the library and set up the parents’ books and reviews, and Director of Dining Services Anne Maury Haapala supplied delightful treats: milk and cookies centered around the theme of the popular book, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” 

Novel Discoveries
At the book talk, many of our young readers learned about books that they may never have otherwise picked up, noted Ms. Bailey. The 25 parents in attendance each spoke to small groups of students, chatting about the book they’d brought along and why they enjoyed reading it. Students were captivated by parents’ descriptions of “The Hobbit,” “Where the Fern Grows,” “Bridge to Terabithia,” “James and the Giant Peach,” “A Little Princess,” “The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe,” and “The Hardy Boys.” 

Meaningful Connections
Involving parents in the school experience is enriching on many levels, said Ms. Bailey. “It’s a little slice of life, giving parents insight into teachers’ expectations and our curriculum, and it is wonderful for students to share part of their school day with their parents. Plus, it’s a lot of fun to spend time together talking about books!”