In a groundbreaking approach to fostering literacy, an elementary school teacher has developed a unique program that merges the art of hairstyling with reading. This initiative, aptly named “Books and Braids,” allows students to engage in reading while receiving personalized hair braiding sessions.
The concept was conceived by Emily Thompson, a dedicated Title I Reading and Math instructor at Maplewood Elementary in Minot, North Dakota. Inspired by a salon tradition where many women relax and flip through magazines while getting their hair styled, Thompson sought to create a similar experience in her classroom to enhance literacy among her students.
“The one-on-one interaction is just as rewarding for me as it is for the kids,” Thompson shared. “I introduce myself as their stylist for the day and ask them how they would like their hair done.” Students are given the opportunity to select their own hair accessories and keep the comb used during the session, which Thompson notes is often a cherished item for them.
The idea for “Books and Braids” emerged when Thompson noticed a student whose hair was unkempt while her mother was away. “She was the only one who showed up to our reading group that day, so I offered to braid her hair while she read aloud,” Thompson recalled. “Listening to her read while I styled her hair was a beautiful moment, and that’s when the idea for ‘Books and Braids’ was born.”
Thompson’s colleague, Mia Carter, documented a session where Thompson was seen braiding a young girl’s hair and shared it on social media. In her post, Carter explained that students can schedule appointments before school, where they read to Thompson as she styles their hair. “Each child leaves with a new hairstyle, a fresh comb, and dedicated attention from an adult who cares,” Carter remarked. “It’s a wonderfully relaxed way to encourage reading without the pressure of traditional methods.”
Literacy is crucial for a child’s academic journey. According to research by Save the Children, only about one-third of fourth graders in the United States achieve proficiency in reading. If children struggle with reading by the fourth grade, their chances of catching up diminish significantly.
Thompson is also open to including boys in her program. “I’ve had some boys express interest, and I’m completely on board with that. I can braid or even style their hair with gel if they’d like,” she explained. She is currently collaborating with the school’s extracurricular coordinator to develop ideas for engaging boys in similar activities.
Though “Books and Braids” has been running for just a short time, Thompson has received an overwhelming positive response. “I’ve contemplated how many similar programs could sprout across the nation and the impact they could have on young lives—it’s truly inspiring,” she noted. “It’s incredible how one simple idea can create such a significant difference.”
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In summary, “Books and Braids” is an innovative and heartwarming program that not only promotes literacy among young students but also fosters personal connections through hair styling, making learning a delightful experience.
Keyphrase: Innovative literacy program
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