In January an English class of Saltus’ senior SGY2 students learned how to read all over again. The students were given the task of creating an infant’s book, but had to learn how young children learn to read!They soon learnt that creating a book wasn’t as simple as they first thought.The project started at Saltus’ Lower Primary Cavendish campus where they met up with teacher and Key Stage One Coordinator Rebecca Van Homan.She opened the students’ eyes to the world of children’s books, explaining just how the average child’s mind works when learning to read.“Children like to be engaged when reading or listening to a book,” said Ms Van Homan. “They like to do things for themselves which is why books that are interactive and involve the child are the most popular types of books.”The students found that creating a successful book was going to be pretty tough; the preparation they would have to do like carrying out extensive research to find out what words, rhymes, images and themes to use.Ms Van Homan also introduced to the students the possibility of creating different types of books for the children educational, story or simply fun books.The students spent some one-on-one time with the year one infants who were all too eager to meet them.“I loved spending time reading to my little girl. She was so energetic and adorable!” said Brittany Chlebek, 17. “It was amazing to see that they all had strong opinions about what type of books they liked.”The students had to consider what resources would be useful, like the Dolch Word List, a list of the most common words that children first learn when reading, and the materials that they would need.Thin paper would be a big no-no as drops and spillages would soon take their toll.Upon completion of the books, the SGY 2 students are soon to return to Cavendish to spend some more time with the infants, this time reading them their own books.“I really enjoyed creating my children’s book. I chose a topic that I love fashion and dressing up!” said Kiara Wilkinson, 17.Another student, Aaron Furbert said: “I was amazed at how much work and preparation these little books needed; the most interesting part was learning about the process of a child learning to read.”“I never thought I would be learning to read again at the age of 18,” Furbert declared. “I just hope that they like my book!”Some of the books will be presented to individual infants whilst others are to be auctioned off at the Saltus Association fundraiser on April 28th, along with various other student projects from around the school.