Corrine Cooper, 9, created a “life jacket” after learning about water safety from the Auxiliary presentation.

As part of a summer reading program, Auxiliarist Sherry Blomeley, Flotilla 22, D7, is part of a summer reading program.  Sherry is also a Cobb County Public Library System Regional Manager.  The program is named “Make a Splash – Read” and on the water safety messages are an integral part of the program.

Using creativity and imagination, youngsters make their own “life jacket” from grocery store bags.  The arts and craft demonstration, and the direct involvement of the youngsters in the jacket creation, drives the safety issue home.  The craft segment is intertwined with a reading session.  Parents of the youngster also participate in the program.  Youngsters not only learn about water safety during the reading sessions they also get to take home books, colored “life jackets” and other safety literature for sharing at home.

The program is free to local youth and area-wide participation is encouraged, including on an active web site at www.cobbcat.org

Hopefully this idea could be incorporated into local library and Auxiliary programs across the country.

~GJA 07-30-10