THE habit of reading remains essential to a child’s growth and development and this is emphasized in this year’s National Children’s Book Reading Day (NCBD).

The activity, simultaneously held in all SM Supermalls in the country, created learning spaces outside school classrooms and engaged eager students in fun storytelling activities.

In Davao City, the book reading activities happened in SM Lanang Premier and SM City Davao with the following guest readers: Mr. Mikey Aportadera, chief of the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office, and Ms. Cherry Faye Banquil Al-ag, Davao Wellness and Spa Association president. SM’s Russel Alaba (AVP for marketing in Mindanao) and Richie Moya (SM Lanang Premier leasing manager) also joined the activity to read the Duck and Croc series from Anvil Kids.

Kids from Lagao Central Elementary School also enjoyed the storytelling activity in SM City General Santos. Stories came to life as performed by the renowned The Story Book Project of Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges with Mr. Jhon Muana of SM Global Pinoy Center.

“Books teach children to be more creative. Reading helps them to learn from the past, understand the present, and prepare for the future,” said Aportadera who himself is a fan of American author James Redfield. “My favorite book is Celestine Prophecy.”

“Reading brings children fun while developing their creativity, imagination and building their communication skills,” said Al-ag. “I also encourage parents to read to their children as early as possible. This is also a special bonding opportunity which gives the parents the chance to impart family values and learn more about the skills and talents of their kids.”

NCBD is a collaboration among SM Cares and partners from DepEd, National Bookstore, Anvil Publishing and the SM Foundation.

NCBD in Davao was attended by kids from Bayani Learning Academy, Ace-Vil Child Development Center, Euro Asia Emil’s Child Early Development, and Matina Central Elementary School.