Reading Play

What do children learn from Reading Play?

Early literacy skills are the foundation of all learning. Third grade reading proficiency is a critical benchmark. Until grade three children learn to read. After grade three, children read to learn.

Reading to your child encourages a love of learning. Making reading at bedtime a routine makes bedtime a positive experience for children and parents.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Book Nook Under the Trees

Come relax and curl up with some great books. Grab some shade and share stories as a family. Find some new titles and enjoy some classics.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Come Meet Libby – Worcester’s Mobile Library!

Come on board Libby, the mobile library, and get your free Worcester Public Library card. We have books and movies for all ages and interests.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Beep, beep. Word construction underway! Join us in the alphabet rock pits as we move letters around to construct words. Use small construction vehicles to transform our letter rock quarry into a busy construction site.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Math, Words, & Good Vibrations!

Kids learn, create, and build confidence through fun math and storytelling activities. Practice addition with positive affirmations, then create a short story using encouraging words. A fun way to build math, literacy, creativity, and self-confidence!

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Plush Reading Buddy

Make a small stuffed pal to sit by your side as you read and tell stories. You can make a caterpillar, bunny, or even an octopus.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Puppet Theatre

Choose from a variety of our puppets or bring your handmade ‘self-portrait puppets’ to the puppet theater to create your own puppet show. All are welcome to join in or watch as part of the audience.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Scavenger Hunt

Join Worcester Division of Youth Opportunities for a good old-fashioned scavenger hunt. Children will use their problem-solving skills to explore the park and find items.

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

What Can You Do With a Box?

Inspired by the books What to Do With a Box? by Jane Yolen and It's Not A Box by Antoinette Portis, children and families will use their imagination to turn an ordinary cardboard box into…anything! A house, a car, a rocket, a boat, or something completely unexpected. With simple materials and open-ended play, children take the lead while adults join in and play along. Come see how something as simple as a box can inspire creativity, imagination, and lots of fun!

11:00 am - 03:30 pm

Write Your Own Story

Telling, drawing, and writing stories is a powerful way for children to share their understanding and become confident readers and writers. Come write your own story and bring it home for your own library!