Young Authors at LA's Best

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During the past school year children in the LA’s Best after school program at 33 Los Angeles schools participated in a Young Author’s program.  Children learned about getting and developing ideas and wrote their own books.  In coordination with California Readers, each participating school had a visit from a published author.  I visited six schools and was impressed by the enthusiasm of the children and how proud they were of their own books.  Even Kindergarten, First and Second Graders made their own books.  They learned that like most writers, their best material comes out of their own lives.  The theme of their books was “I Am...”  As I went around the room to meet the authors and admire each book I learned that “I am a good drawer,” “I am a good drummer,” “I am a good sister,” “I am good at basketball,” and “I am a good reader.”  Each book was different and expressed the personality of the author.  The children not only wrote their books but illustrated them as well.  Each book also had a title page, copyright page and a dedication.  I wish I had had a Young Author's program when I was growing up!

LA's BEST - Better Educated Students for Tomorrow - is a nationally recognized after school education, enrichment and recreation program serving more than 28,000 children with the greatest needs and fewest resources throughout the City of Los Angeles. LA's BEST After School Enrichment Program provides a safe haven for children ages 5 to 12 at 186 elementary school sites each day during the critical hours after school — at no cost to parents. Established in 1988, LA's BEST is a partnership including the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Unified School District and the private sector. LA’s BEST is part of Beyond the Bell, whose mission is to ensure that all children and youth in LAUSD have access to high quality, safe and supervised academic, enrichment, and recreation programs that inspire learning and achievement beyond the regular school day.