Literacy program

Girl Scouts lead read-along event at Sunrise store

Amid the shoppers enjoying Swedish meatballs and wandering IKEA’s sales floor are Girl Scouts facing children listening intently to them.

The young volunteers are telling tales in the Sunrise store’s children’s department, hoping to boost literacy through its Read-Along with Troop 10863. Since April, more than two dozen Scouts have rotated on Tuesdays to participate.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to develop social skills,” said troop co-leader Marite Ricardo. “We want them to excel in that area.”

Co-leader Carmen Nunez said she’s gotten positive feedback from children and parents. One mom came up to her after a session with tears of joy in her eyes.

“She said her son has ADHD, and she never saw him sit still for such a long period of time,” Nunez said. “She then thanked me. I had chills and was almost crying myself when she told me that. It’s an awesome opportunity.”

Ricardo’s daughter and troop captain Brianna spearheaded the endeavor with Nunez’s daughter, Amanda Nunez-Ferreira.

“Reading at IKEA is a lot of fun,” said Brianna, 8. “… Education is very important because it prepares us to head out in the world as adults. … As a Girl Scout, I want to help other children have the same chance to learn that I do.”

Amanda, 9, also enjoys participating.

“I like how much they listen and how they pay attention to us,” she said.

Kaete Bravo, 10, said the IKEA books appeal to everyone.

“They teach us and the kids such good lessons about how to live life,” she said. “… I feel it’s important to promote reading because it’s entertainment that shows kids they can express themselves by writing and enjoying a

story that lifts their spirits.”

The hope is to bring the literacy program to other IKEA stores, said Chantal Nichtawitz, local marketing specialist.

“We have already received very positive feedback and look forward to continuing to host these enthusiastic and passionate Girl Scouts for months to

come,” she said.