Ellsworth promotes literacy to children

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. --  Ellsworth Airmen read to children at the base Child Development Center March 1, as part of the National Read Across America Month.

Read Across America began in 1997 to commemorate the birthday of children's author Theodore Seuss Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss to promote reading skills and awareness to children.

Eva Burley, spouse of Master Sgt. Richard Burley, 28th Maintenance Group wing avionics manager, and parent of Easton Burley, 3, was one of several volunteers. Burley read "The Cat in the Hat" to a group of 3 to 5-year-old children March 1.

"I wanted to volunteer to read for my son and his classmates during Read Across America and Dr. Seuss's birthday," Burley said.

Burley added that dressing up in character helps grab children's attention and gets them excited about reading.

"I think it's wonderful that we have a close-knit military family that has always helped each other," said Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "It's great to have volunteers come out and devote time taking care of children, and help other military parents get through the day so they can work and continue to serve the nation."

Weatherington explained that reading is very important for kids. "I still read every night to my 7-year-old daughter. It really helps her develop in school and reach her full potential."

Tina Parks, Ellsworth Child Development Center operations manager, said the CDC hosts the event every year to allow parents to come out, eat breakfast with their children, and read Dr. Seuss stories".

Parks added CDC staff is trying to get both parents and children involved to help promote reading to children.

For more information about volunteer opportunities, call the CDC at (605) 385-2488.