Over 18 foster youths and their Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteers joined us at our office in Milpitas on Saturday, April 22, 2023, to celebrate the Day of the Child through creative activities that build literacy skills.
As the kids and CASAs first walked into the office, the aroma of freshly popped popcorn filled the rooms. Along with bright and colorful decorations, the office magically transformed into a circus fairground for our kids to enjoy! There were multiple stations where youth and CASAs could do fun and interactive activities to strengthen their bond, fine motor and literacy skills. In the first room, kids could read to Canine Companions’ therapy dogs, take pictures with props at our carnival-themed photo booth or participate in a Reader’s Theater storytime and do arts and crafts with Red Ladder Theatre Company. For the second room, our youth and CASAs could sign up for a library card with San Jose Public Library, participate in a watercolor project with ArtHouse Studio, or play literacy games with FIRST 5 Family Resouce Center staff. To top off the event, outside, there was a bounce house, balloon animals on demand, and creative face painting.
After the activities, our kids and CASAs fueled up with lunch and well-balanced snacks. To end the fun, our kids walked away with many books of their choice, courtesy of Bookelicious and Bring Me A Book! The fun was never-ending!
Reading is fundamental to a child’s development. Children develop empathy, build confidence, and expand their imagination through reading. Providing foster children with access to various books and nurturing their interest in reading is crucial in setting up their academic success.
The event was made possible thanks to our supportive staff, CASA Volunteers, and most importantly, our community partners who participated in the event. ArtHouse Studio, Bookelicious, Bring Me A Book, Canine Companions, FIRST 5 Santa Clara County, Red Ladder Theatre Company and the San Jose Public Library all SHOWED UP to nurture our children’s love for reading.
If you have any questions or are interested in sponsoring a youth-related event, please contact our development department at development@childadvocatessv.org.