Preschool Program

Read & Connect has created a developmentally appropriate literacy enhancement program designed to help preschool aged children expand their language and emergent reading skills. This ninety-minute program is a balance of child and content-centered literacy activities developed around the Museum's Collecting A to Z exhibit. Thematic exploration centers provide an integrated approach to learning. Museum touch-it boxes, music and movement and open-ended art projects foster a child's love of language and reading.

Students will learn through: 

  • Introduction of vocabulary
  • Story time features age appropriate, picture-rich literature that help the exhibits come to life
  • Manipulation and investigation of real Museum artifacts - the real world connection
  • Focused tour of your chosen exhibit in Collecting A to Z
  • Hands-on creative enrichment activities
  • Free carousel ride for all participants

Educators consistently express the importance and effectiveness of the artifacts, vocabulary and stories in making a real literacy connection with their students. Children listen to a story about musical instruments that reinforces their new words. Next, preschoolers see these instruments in an exhibit and then have the opportunity to play a bongo from the percussion family. The connection is made, preschoolers are able to see, touch and listen to the words around them!

Call 616.456.3977 or email Group Scheduling to register for this innovative program.