Summer Learning Challenge- Noreyde's Reflections

Hi! I’m Noreyde and I volunteer at the David L. Hoyt Foundation at various libraries for their Summer Learning Challenge Program. I’m currently a student at the University of Illinois at Chicago and I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor in Urban Education for Elementary students. Volunteering at this foundation has been one of the best decisions I have made. I love working with kids and being part of this program has given me that opportunity. From experience, working at several libraries and playing Giant Word Winder and Giant Math Winder has showed me how these games can really help kids develop certain skills. One of the main skills that it can help kids develop are team building skills, while these games can be played by a single child or in a group, it is a great way for kids to work in a group and work together. Playing in teams can help children gain skills that can be applied later on in their life. All the times I have visited the Chicago Public Libraries with David I have seen kids work wonderfully in groups and help each other out. Every time we show kids these games they’re amused with the type of games we’re demonstrating them. The large size of the games and colorful chips that come with it, make the experience more fun for the kids to interact with. One memorable experience was at Portage-Cragin Library Branch, where several kids had previously played the game in the past year. The moment they saw the games they began to get very excited and they couldn’t wait to play.  Kids familiar with the game gladly taught other kids how to play the game and were happy to introduce this game they loved. We also played a silent game of Word Winder and Math Winder, which was a bit difficult at first but at the end the kids collaborated and successfully worked in teams to finish the game. Implementing these games in schools and libraries would be a fun and educational way to help kids learn math and spelling skills. This educational game helps kids work out their minds while also making them be active at the same time. I believe engaging children in these types of games can make a difference in their future lives. ​