PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN GET THE READING HABIT THANKS TO LOCAL HOUSE BUILDER

Pre-school children at a Watton playgroup are getting in the reading habit following a donation by a local house builder.

Abel Homes, which is based in the town, gave a cash grant to Little Acorns, which meets every morning at the Watton Youth and Community Centre, to enable the group to purchase its ‘wish list’ of books to encourage children to get reading.

The money allowed the purchase of a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction books, ranging from Goldilocks and the Three Bears to volumes on dinosaurs and the seasons – as well as a book entitled ‘Construction’ which is particularly popular with boys in the group.

“Books are so important, helping children develop language, as well as encouraging them to learn,” said Heather Gammons, deputy manager at Little Acorns.  “This generous donation from Abel Homes has allowed us to buy a wide selection of new books, including many on topics which the children are really interested in.

“We have also been able to purchase some book bags, so that the children can take books home – it is so vital to get books out there and introduce the habit of reading from an early age.”

Maggie Abel, director of Abel Homes, said, “As a family firm with very strong local roots, we have always tried to get involved in our local communities, and often work with schools and children’s groups.

“When we heard that Little Acorns had a wish list of books, we were delighted to fund it, especially when we saw the volume on construction on the list!”

Little Acorns operates every morning welcoming children from the ages of two to four.  For more details, visit www.facebook.com/littleacornswatton.