American Corner-Manila celebrates International Literacy Day
In the words of UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova,
“Education brings sustainability to all the development goals, and literacy is
the foundation of all learning. It
provides individuals with the skills to understand the world and shape it, to
participate in democratic processes and have a voice, and also to strengthen
their cultural identity.”
Literacy, indeed, is the foundation of all learning. It equips us with the essential skills needed
for life. With an army of educated
people, our society can definitely meet the demands of these generations’
pressing needs for development.
As we continue to affirm our commitment to contribute and
support the educational needs of our community, American Corner-Manila in
partnership with the Center for Social Concern and Action organized an outreach
activity on the 10th of September 2012. Joining us in celebrating the day were the
parents and children from Brgy. 704, Zone 77 of Malate, Manila.
Dr. Susana Estanislao, DLSU’s Director of the Office of Counseling and Career
Services, led a session for the parents entitled, “Pagsuporta at Paghikayat sa Pag-aaral ng Ating Mga Anak”. The session covered a number of practical
guides and techniques to support and motivate their child’s literacy learning. She further gave them a brief activity that
led them to recognize their child’s need and identify ways on how they can
support them.
Meanwhile, the kids greatly enjoyed a fun-filled interactive
storytelling session, as they playfully participated in answering every
question. Also, they were able to
explore some cool educational apps using iPads which further motivated their
interest in the session.
We are also much honored for a timely visit by Ms. Eileen Deegan, the Global
American Corner Coordinator and Ms. Reysa Alenzuela, Director of the Thomas
Jefferson Information Center, as they were able to see how the Corner carried
out its activities.
The day ended up with thankful parents and children
anticipating for more activities like this. Even though we have yet to gather a good
number of people to represent the large group of our fellow Filipinos who, up
until this day experience barriers to literacy, this clearly signified that we
can help each other in many ways. Good
intentions, no matter how small, can always make a difference.
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| Educational apps in iPads are effective to further encourage and motivate learning in children. |
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| Talk on "Supporting and motivating your child’s literacy learning: practical guides and techniques" lectured by Dr. Susana A. Estanislao |