Children Reading Ministry
MISSION STATEMENT
We are committed to equipping children with the tools they need to improve their reading abilities and comprehension. Through targeted support and mentorship, we aim to prepare them for academic excellence, to develop essential life skills, and to deepen their understanding of the Bible, fostering holistic personal growth
ACTIVITIES
The children’s ministry offers a dynamic reading program designed to empower children in Grades 3 to 7 from neighbourhood schools. Taking place every Friday afternoon (1:30–2:45 PM) during school terms, sessions are held in the Northside Church hall and gardens, providing a safe and supportive environment for learning.
Activities include:
- Book Selection: Children choose age-appropriate books with guidance from experienced facilitators, ensuring a wide variety of genres to spark their interest and cater to all reading levels.
- Reading Sessions: Each child reads aloud with the assistance of an adult volunteer, improving fluency, pronunciation, and public speaking skills while building confidence.
- Vocabulary Building: Challenging words encountered during reading are noted, reviewed at home, and revisited in future sessions to expand vocabulary and reinforce retention.
- Book Loans: Children borrow books to read at home, encouraging practice and fostering a love for reading, which enhances communication skills.
- Comprehension Checks: Regular discussions and questions ensure children not only read but fully understand the material, emphasising the importance of comprehension.
This program holistically supports academic growth, nurtures a love for reading, and builds essential skills to help children thrive.
ACTIVITIES
Over time, children who consistently attend our program demonstrate significant advancements in their reading skills, leading to increased confidence in their abilities.
The children’s reading club has been in service since 2012
Testimonies
Long-standing Northside reading assistant Granny Marnie also dedicates three days a week to helping with reading and comprehension at a local private school. In addition to the input of volunteers, these children have access to an abundance of reading resources at school and home which noticeably boosts their reading standards. His is in marked contrast to many children attending Northside Children’s Reading Ministry. “I feel blessed after a Friday session of participating in the Northside Reading programme.” Granny Marnie
Once I came here, I felt really excited on my first day. I started Children Reading and Wow Kids when I was in grade 3 till grade 6. I think that reading club is the best for your child. It improves good reading skills and speaks better English. As for wow kids, I can say that it helps your child know the Bible. After classes, we get to eat juice, biscuits and doughnuts. If you need there are sweets and snacks. I enjoyed reading club and wow kids very much. Daesher- Grade 6 Student
Coming here was something that improved many skills in my life, I am sure that once your child joins us you will be very happy to see your child’s improvement due to Reading Club and Wow Kids. It does not only improve your child’s reading skills but also helps your child come closer to god due to the activities. Praise – Attending First Time this Term
Get Involved
We invite both corporate partners and individual volunteers to join us in supporting the Northside Community Church Children’s Reading Ministry. Companies can make a meaningful impact by sending volunteers to our weekly reading sessions, as exemplified by ZIMWORX, fostering a collaborative spirit while addressing the needs of children from vulnerable schools. These children often face challenges such as limited support at home or a lack of motivation in their learning environment, making the role of volunteers even more essential. Additionally, corporate employees are encouraged to champion literacy within their own families and communities, helping to build a national culture of reading. Individuals passionate about literacy and education can also make a lasting difference by volunteering their time and skills, playing a key role in shaping a generation rooted in values and empowered through the transformative power of reading and education.
Deacon Comment
We thank God for the children who are growing in confidence through reading and for the volunteers who faithfully listen and encourage them. As we look ahead, we pray for more volunteers and fresh books to keep this ministry thriving and to bless our kids with joy and learning.