Storytime with the USO

One of the greatest recreational, educational, and enjoyable activities since the beginning of time is the act of reading. Reading is an activity that one can indulge in as early as infancy. Of course, babies cannot read, but they still benefit greatly from being read to. We read for many reasons, ranging from studies to pastimes, but regardless of those reasons, it always results in attaining knowledge. Reading for leisure may not teach you about academic, historical, or scientific matters but you may still be exposed to new words, thus improving your vocabulary, literacy, and literary comprehension. For young children such as infants and toddlers, reading presents them with new concepts and an understanding of the world. It is never too early to start reading to a child.

The world is full of so much newness from a perspective of a baby, and reading introduces them to new sounds, words, and language. In addition to the presentation of new ideas, it solidifies and reassures them of familiar ideas, making sure they are retained. The parent-child bond is also strengthened by sharing in this activity together. A few times a month, USO Sigonella has the pleasure of co-hosting Story Time at the library which is an MWR event targeted toward young children that focuses on reading. Our last event was on January 11th, 2023 from 1030 to 1130. The USO makes sure that snacks and a craft are provided, all the while enthusiastically reading a book or two.

Children giggle at the animated depiction of story characters, they get to express themselves through drawings and enjoy whatever treat is planned for that day. Children are able to call out the types of animals they see in the books, they can name different objects, and learn about colors. Seeing the smiles on children’s and parent’s faces and hearing laughter throughout the room is a true gift and testament to the impact of this beloved program. Story Time is not only fun but enriching, engaging, and helpful to the development of a young child. This reading program has proven to be important and meaningful to the NAS Sigonella community and we are honored to be a part of it.