Reading to toddlers and preschoolers (location Neude)

Surroundings

The Utrecht Library is for everyone. You can count on us for your personal development for the rest of your life. You can read, learn and inform yourself with us. We encourage you to get acquainted with literature, culture and society. Especially for children, we organize reading hours where children can join without obligation. Utrecht is a city full of diversity of languages and cultures, which is why reading is done in multiple languages.

The purpose of (multilingual) reading in the Utrecht library.

We believe it is important to introduce language to children at a young age and to make them enthusiastic about reading. By reading aloud and talking about stories, children come into contact with new words, it increases their vocabulary and language comprehension. In addition, we want to make (grand)parents and carers clear the importance of reading aloud and to promote reading aloud in multiple languages. Through the reading hours in the library, we introduce them to the Library, the materials and the activities that we organize in a low-threshold manner.

What does it mean to be a volunteer reader?

You will read to a group of children in a branch of the Utrecht library. Depending on the run-up at that moment, there are between 2-18 children. You have prepared the reading books (2/3 pieces) well at home. You involve the children in the story and apply the techniques you have learned during the training. In addition to reading aloud, you activate adults and children to take a look at the library's collection and encourage them to borrow materials or point them in the right direction.

Who are we looking for?

• You are at least 18 years old.
• You are committed and you keep to agreements.
• You are ambassador of the Library and enthusiastic about reading and books.
• You think the language and reading development of children is important and you want to contribute to this.
• You read aloud and connect with the interests and world of the target group.
• You have a good command of the Dutch (and/or English) language.
• You have good social skills, you also dare to address adults and you can respond to group dynamics. You are positive and have an open attitude.

Time investment and availability.

• You will follow the two-hour 'Interactive Reading' course on September 23 at 7 p.m. in the Neude Library.
• You are available for at least half a day per month for at least six months.
• You are flexible and coordinate your reading hours in consultation with your supervisor and your fellow reading volunteers.
• Each time you read, you need 1-2 hours of preparation time at home and one hour at the location, of which 30 minutes are read aloud, the start and conclusion.
• The reading activities take place every Wednesday for 2 - 4 years from 10 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. and for 3-6 years from 15.00 to 3.30 p.m. in the Neude

What does the Library offer?

• An inspiring and educational working environment, a good volunteer policy and a permanent contact person.
• A great facility arrangement for volunteers, including a free Library subscription.
• The course 'Interactive reading aloud' on September 23, good guidance and coaching from a professional.