Mystery Readers in TK
It’s a new year, which means new Mystery Readers for TK! On days where there is a Mystery Reader in TK, students sit down to lunch to ponder a set of three clues up on the board. These clues are along the lines of, “I have traveled to the Amazon Rainforest,” “Our family is expecting a baby,” or “My favorite food is lasagna.” Based on the statements provided, students guess whose family member might be standing outside the classroom door, ready to read stories to the class.
After all guesses are placed, the Mystery Reader is revealed. Delighted, the child welcomes their parent, grandparent, or other family member into class and sits with them as they read.
This sweet tradition came about because TK teacher Ms. Natalie had observed Mystery Readers take place at other schools.
“I love how excited the students get to guess who may be coming, to show their parents part of their classroom day that they do not usually see, and to share their parents with their friends,” says Ms. Natalie.
Mystery Readers keep story time fresh and interesting. The teachers have noticed that children who tend to nod off after lunch are much more alert when there is a surprise visitor. It also encourages children to practice their listening and comprehension skills, as they work with the teachers to read the clues on the board and then match them with what they know about their parents.
Both students and teachers have a lot of fun when Mystery Readers visit the class. The children get to engage with new stories and new storytelling styles. And teachers find themselves giggling when the whole class claims to be expecting a new baby, or when students decide that all their family members have been to the Amazon.
Another giggle-worthy occurrence is when teachers prompt the class with, "Does anyone have any questions for our visitor?" and 75% of the hands are statements about what pets each child has at home and the other 25% are compliments about the visitor's outfit.
“We did have to spend a good part of the year explaining the difference between a question and a comment,” says TK teacher Ms. Izzy. “This is a typical misunderstanding in kindergarten. A few students have started announcing, ‘I have a statement!’ when they raise their hand, which shows improved self-awareness.”
Our TK teachers agree that Mystery Readers are a great way for kids to feel proud of their respective families and where they come from.
“I see great value in this program, as it strengthens the connection between home and school,” says TK teacher Ms. Indi. “It provides a fun opportunity for children to see their classmates’ family members visit, helping build a stronger sense of community and awareness of one another’s families.”
