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January 20, 2020
Dear Families,
I had such a pang of sentimental thoughts the other day on the subway. As I was scrolling through the NY Times on my phone, I decided to stop reading about the world and sit quietly. Luckily, I overheard the perfect conversation.
Two high school students were comparing stories of childhood. One of them told this anecdote:
“My sister had eight imaginary friends when she was little. One day she came home from the park and was hysterical because she'd left one in the park. My father had to go back and help her look.”
I could not believe my luck. That is the best overheard story to put in my writer’s notebook. I was elated, and then so sentimental. Childhood = imagination, unwavering belief, complete sincerity, simple explanations, and clarity. That time of our children's lives was beautiful. And while it may be inevitable that the thinking of four and five year olds changes, I do believe we can help our children hang on to some of that magical thinking.
Books hold many of these possibilities. We can all get lost in worlds and experiences and places and ideas that either reflect our lives, or are entirely different. It is so important to give the gift of story to ourselves, and to our children. Therefore, our children need books, time, support, expectations and opportunities to talk about stories. We must always find ways to fulfill this list at school, and you also can find ways to support your reading life, and that of your children.
READ. Go back to the park and look for the lost imaginary friend. You may actually find him, her, or them.
Speaking of stories, our second free community event, Movie Night, is coming up on Thursday the 23rd at 6:15pm in the gymatorium. Fill out the required permission form here. Bring the whole family, have pizza and popcorn, and watch the comedy Playing With Fire. Enjoy the story!
With Respect,
Jacqui