Disclosure :: This post is sponsored by R.E.A.D. NOLA.
Early Literacy Classes With R.E.A.D. NOLA
Imagine a place where your young child can play with other children, spend some time with you, play with sensory toys, sing songs, make music and shake their sillies out. It exists! Let me introduce you to R.E.A.D. NOLA. R.E.A.D. stands for Reading Enrichment and Development. R.E.A.D. New Orleans is an early literacy program for children approximately 4 months to 5 years of age. Their curriculum is built around movement, music, art, acting and themed activities. Children are welcome to attend with either a parent, caregiver or any other adult figure in their life.
I was lucky enough to spend a few hours at R.E.A.D. with my daughter Finnley. When I arrived, I rang the doorbell at the entrance and Miss Jenifer, the owner, greeted me. Once we made our way upstairs, it was a child’s dream (and every adult who is a child at heart – a.k.a. ME). A playroom, a classroom, toys, books and fidgets galore. Finnley and I went 
into the classroom and sat on the rug and chatted with Jenifer. She gave me the run down of their mission, values, curriculum, course offerings and age groups. A few minutes later, Miss Marilyn, the former owner/now creator/consultant and teacher arrived. They are both so knowledgeable and you can see it in their faces how much they love their job and the children they meet.
Both Miss Marilyn and Miss Jenifer are former teachers at Isidore Newman School, specializing in early childhood. Miss Marilyn wanted to create something for the early childhood years to aid in the child’s development of a variety of skills. What better way to learn than having fun?!
What does a typical class entail? Class began with parents, children, and staff gathered on the rug as a whole group for a shared reading experience. Activities included: finding a spot on the alphabet rug, reading books and nursery rhymes. They also used music and movement to keep children focused on the play aspect of learning.
The first half hour of the class was led by Miss Jenifer, with Miss Marilyn assisting. Then the second half took place in the adjacent room – the literacy center. This is like the ultimate play room with so many options depending on your child’s interests. Then we returned to the first room and concluded with a snack, nursery rhyme singing and bubbles.
They also offer “backpack checkouts”. Children are encouraged to check out a backpack that contains books, toys, CDs, or DVDs of a specific theme. The backpack can be exchanged for a new one after each class.
How do I know which class my child should be in? Each class option is based on age group. If you are unsure you can always reach out to Miss Jenifer or Miss Marilyn.
Who will be teaching my child(ren)? Miss Jenifer and/or Miss Marilyn.
Do you need to bring anything? Just you or any guardian, your child, a snack and drink
for them.
What are the hours of operation? They do not have an actual open time and a close time. The class options and times are located on the R.E.A.D. Nola website. For instance, the Spring Program classes start as early as 9:15 am and end as late as 11:45 am. You can also fill out a contact form at any time. I have added the link here: R.E.A.D. Contact Form.
Where is R.E.A.D. located? 921 S. Carrollton Ave. New Orleans, La 70118. There is no parking lot, but plenty of free street parking is available.
What Else Do I Need to Know About R.E.A.D. NOLA?
- Space is limited – Advance registration required (If you decide last minute, please text 504-495-0233 to see if they still have room.)
- They are more than happy to try and work with your schedule if there is another day or time you would prefer
- If you would like to have a private playgroup, they do need a minimum of 8 children registered
- Children must be supervised by their adult while in playroom
- No food in the playroom; beverages limited to water-only
I cannot rave enough about the fun time Finnley and I had. We met new friends. We sang new songs. We played with new toys. It was truly a great bonding moment for my daughter and I and I cannot wait to return!
*DISCOUNT OPPORTUNITY: IF you plan to register for more than one class a week, either two classes for one child or two siblings for one class, you will receive a 5% discount.
