2 minute read
Educators create Lil’ Book Club
From left to right: Debbie Lolla and Donna Early, founders of Lil’ Book Club.
Not Just Another Book Club
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by Allison Futterman photography courtesy of LKN-SLP
Debbie Lolla and Donna Early are two educators who have been enriching the lives of children for years. They previously collaborated when working at a school together. Lolla had developed a (Kindergarten-5th grade) life skills curriculum and wanted to integrate music into the subject matter. She couldn’t find any that quite worked. Her colleague at the time, Early was a music teacher—and she was up to the challenge. She created original music that was a perfect fit to accompany Lolla’s curriculum. Now these two innovative thinkers have joined forces again, with their creation of the Lil’ Book Club, based in Davidson.
In addition to the reading of a carefully selected book, these events encompass much more. It’s all centered around social emotional learning known as SEL. Tailored to kids ages four to six, the main themes are empathy, kindness, and friendship. “Our mission is to help children develop into kind, empathetic humans who will help others,” said Lolla. “We need more of that in the world and there’s no better place to start than with kids.” Early echoes the sentiment, “We plant the seeds and hope they grow.” Early’s song—written specifically for that particular book and the subject matter it explores. The kids move with the music, incorporating colorful scarves (if they so choose) that are provided. They also do an art project that is suited for that particular book club gathering. And there’s always discussion time, where the children talk about their feelings. This is an integral part of encouraging interaction and a chance for the kids to express themselves.
The book club has been getting together since March and there’s been an overwhelmingly positive response. Due to all the interest, they’ve exploring options to expand their concept to a wider reach. Lolla and Early are also considering developing a subscription service. They would also love to see their book club in schools. One possibility would essentially be their “book club in a box,” which would include a lesson plan, a link to the original music, and supplies for the art piece.
Where: Above Main Street Books in the LKN-SLP office When: Saturdays at 10 a.m., during the Farmer’s Market. Lasts for 90 minutes. Cost: $35 | To register or for more info: www.mylilbookclub.com/ See more here: www.instagram.com/mylilbookclubnc/ Drop-ins always welcome.
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