The Macksville City Library hosted 21 excited local preschool students in the new library addition recently to celebrate Kansas Reads to Preschoolers month. This initiative takes place each November as part of a statewide project through the State Library of Kansas to ensure that all public libraries in the state promote early literacy. The featured book for 2023, “My Heart Fills With Happiness,” by Monique Gray Smith, was a perfect read-aloud during Native American Heritage Month, with its spotlight on Native American family life and culture. Thanks to a $400 donation from the Midwest Energy Community Fund, the Macksville City Library was able to offer some extra special activities for the local Pre-K students to enjoy. After listening to the story, everyone brainstormed and shared something that made them happy. From baby cats and family, to basketball and reading books, the list was long (and could have gone on and on!). Then, we divided into three groups so students could decorate a bookmark with something that made them happy, “fill” their new scarecrow bear with stuffing, and create a nametag for their bear. Some of the many unique names chosen were: Teddy, Clifford, Heart, Bob, and Tree. Finally, we all sampled some Bannock (Native American bread) that was mentioned in the story. Made with only flour, salt, baking powder, canola oil and water, it was a chance to try something new.
Source: Great Bend Tribune
