What is Backyard Literacy?
Backyard Literacy is one of the options parents can choose from "I Read All Day," an academic support company for all things literacy.
It came about as an idea to offer children supplemental literacy instruction, in person with a certified teacher, outside and socially distant.
We are trying to reach as many children as possible to offer support during these unprecedented times. Our goal is to grow and to be able to offer literacy options for all children, regardless of economic status.
How does it work?
Parents work together to create pods of 4-10 children around the same grade level and come up with days and times that would work for all. Find a course that you think would benefit your group from the list created by certified teachers. Reach out to Colleen via text (908) 278-0855 to confirm pods and classes and you will be given a password to the registration/purchasing page. Then the teacher will reach out to the contact parent to finalize times and days and share a list of any materials your child may need.
How much does it cost?
Backyard Literacy costs $320 per child for 8 one hour sessions.
Where does it happen?
In your own backyard. Parents can select one host yard or take turns hosting sessions. Only the host parent needs to remain on the premises, all other parents can drop off and pickup after coordinating with the host. Some sessions may take place at alternate locations.
When does it happen?
It depends on your schedule and the teacher's schedule. Some of our teachers are retired and have lots of flexibility with days and times. Other teachers are currently working in classrooms and will be available after 3:30 weekdays. Scheduling will be flexible if need be. Some weeks you might meet once, other weeks twice, some weeks on a Saturday if the teacher is available.
What safety precautions are in place?
I Read All Day is fully insured and registered. Temperatures will be checked and health checklists will be administered prior to starting each session. Frequent hand sanitizing and masks are a must. Sessions will take place outdoors, socially distant. Waivers will be signed by all participants.
What about the weather?
Backyard Literacy can be scheduled throughout September and October. In the event of inclement weather, parents and teachers would reschedule to another date.
What if my child can't make one of the sessions?
There will be make up sessions offered for kids who missed classes held at a central location at a variety of times.
Do the children need materials?
We ask that all children come to Backyard Literacy with a mask, beach towel or chair, and hand sanitizer or wipes. Different classes may have specific things they need their class to bring, such as a bag of books students can read independently, a white board, marker and eraser, a notebook and pen or a particular text. Teachers will let you know what each child in the group will need for their particular session.
What does the teacher need?
A chair and access to a table to put their materials on. Everything else they will bring with them.
What if the class we want is full?
We are working to get more classes on the schedule. We are also open to ideas from pods if you are looking for something in particular. We can reach out to our available teachers to see if we can make it happen.