Families of École Père Mercure school were treated to two special presentations by author and motivational speaker David Bouchard.
Bouchard talked about the importance of reading, and shared personal experiences about himself and his children.
This is part of École Père Mercure litteratie program, that is teaching the students the importance of reading.
A Canadian Métis author and literacy advocate, Bouchard has produced more than 50 books for readers of all ages, including two guides on reading for parents and educators.
"The presentation was very informative and inspiring," one parent commented.
"We loved the way he made us laugh and the methods he used to keep our attention, like dancing and saying jokes," was one student's comment.
Another said, "We learnt that television and other electronic devices does nothing for our brains, but a book, even only one, can make a difference in our lives. We are motivated to read more then before. He gave us the thirst for reading."
"I liked the way he played the flute while the teacher read," said another
"That one single book can teach you to read," another observed
Bouchard is passionate about reading out loud to children and even played his cedar flute while a teacher read to the students. He asked many questions during the stories he read, in both English and French. He charmed his audience, young and young at heart.
If we want our children to develop the love of reading , they need a large variety of books in order to choose their favourites, he said. In Bouchard's opinion, it is the responsibility of the adults in the children's lives (parents, grandparents, family members, teacher and librarians) to take the time to read to them and to help them choose a good book until the child is independent to choose himself.
The second strong point of the presentation was that it is never too late.
The best gift we can give our children is the love of reading, Bouchard said. We can do this by reading with them out loud and having a joy for reading ourselves.
Since the presentation , teachers have noticed an increase in reading in École Père Mercure and at home. The joy and love of reading at what a gift.
