Pioneer Library System

Christmas came early to a group of toddlers attending the Tecumseh Public Library's story time on December 17th. D.R. Shipley, president of First United Bank in Tecumseh, awarded each participant a $50 savings bond for participating in Growing Like a Read, an early childhood literacy program designed to prepare a child to read. The program was made possible by a grant from the Inasmuch Foundation.

"First United Bank strongly feels that learning to read begins with learning basic literacy skills at an early age. We are pleased to partner with the Tecumseh Public Library and Pioneer Library System to help parents invest in their children's financial and educational future," stated Mr. Shipley.

Receiving savings bonds were Alyssa and Katie Bascue, Vanessa and Savannah Wooten, Scarlett Mortimore, Michael Schlottman, Caitlin Love, and Brooke Kato.

Growing Like a Read is a project of the Pioneer Library System, Inasmuch Foundation, and Tinker Federal Credit Union designed to empower parents to create the early literacy experiences that librarians cannot: repetition, ritual, and personal connection. This program teaches parents to adopt activities that target early literacy skills for their young children.

When parents or adult caregivers of infants or preschool children register to participate in the program they receive a tote bag containing a stand-up book of nursery rhymes and songs, a chart with age-appropriate activities, and a piggy bank that represents the investment they are making in their child's development. Parents can enter their child's name in a drawing for a savings bond when they enroll and after completing a set of activities on the activity log.

For more information on story times check the Tecumseh events calendar on the website or call or visit the library.