WORD-PLAY AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

fostering a love of reading and writing at Type Books

Word-Play is a community-based non-profit run out of our Queen West location that works with school-age children to foster a love of reading and writing. All of Word-Play's after-school and summer programs are based on the belief that children learn through play, and that when reading and writing are fun, amazing things can happen.

Word-Play's approach involves peer support and collaboration between junior, intermediate, senior and post-secondary students. Using a wide range of activities in their programs—including drama games, art, music, storytelling and creative play—volunteers emphasize building relationships with the children, and creating an environment that is safe, supportive, creative, and inclusive.

Word-Play was started and is run by many dedicated volunteers—teachers, writers, booksellers, retirees and university students among them. They work closely with Teacher Candidates in the York University Faculty of Education, who are required to have placements in a community setting.

Currently, Word-Play programs are only offered to children who attend three schools in the Queen Street West neighbourhood, and who are identified by their teachers. All programs are offered free of charge.