Reading broadens horizons Published April 13, 2007 By Sandra J. Morrisey POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Developing an appreciation for books, literacy and reading is an important part of the curriculum at the Pope Child Development Center. To promote literacy, the Pope CDC has added another program to the many activities provided to the little people each day. Alumni In Action provides an opportunity for children who previously attended Pope CDC to return and read stories to the children. Many of the children reside on Pope or still live in the surrounding areas. Some are enrolled in the School Age program and the parents are delighted to bring them back to share their special talents and/or reading skills with the children at the center. Our first Alumni In Action is Jaron Reid. His parents are Master Sgt. Robert and Karen Reid. He also has a sister Janel who attends Pope CDC and is in room 9. Jaron read three stories to three children on April 6. This program allows us to stay connected to the little people even after they leave the program to go to "big school". Children choose their own books that they would like to read. Reading is the key to success. If the foundation is laid early in life, many children struggle with other subjects that they will be required to take. Reading is fundamental, important and it is enjoyable. We are very excited to have a program that allows our little one to return to the center and share their talents. The teachers are always delighted to see them and the children definitely love coming back to see their teachers, their old rooms and to see friends who are still at the center. Parents, please continue to instill in your children the importance of reading. Reading lays the foundation for all of their future endeavors. Words can take you places that that you might not ever get to go. When reading books, people actually can travel all over the world and never leave home. At Pope CDC, we are laying the foundation - help them to build on it.