Can You Walk and Read at the Same Time?

An interesting blog post by Elizabeth Bluemle appeared in Publishers Weekly all about bringing children’s literature outdoors. In a variety of programs, one called StoryWalk, pages from books are made into outdoor installations along a walking trail. Two great activities for kids—reading and movement—are brought together in the outdoors’ fresh air and sunshine.

When I think of an outdoor story experience this time of year, I immediately think of Tashlich at Turtle Rock, a story about Annie and her family as they take a walk to Turtle Creek on the afternoon of Rosh Hashanah. They will throw crumbs into the water as symbols of mistakes they made during the past year. As they hike through the woods, they think about the good and bad things that happened and make plans for the new year.  Allowing children to experience this story and to interact with its thoughtful questions in nature adds a dimension that would make a lasting impact on a young and formative mind. Imagine if this "story walk" ended at a tashlich?

Would you consider a project like this in your community?

StoryWalk has a very helpful FAQ on their website, with great information to get a program going in your community.