By Reese Ashley V. Bacos

Attendees join the BECEd Gems’ Book Buffet Year 2, celebrating Literacy Month through storytelling, interactive reading, and activities that nurture young learners’ love for books and kindness.

On September 25, 2026, the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) Gems, led by first- and second-year students, brought The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle to life at CPU Kindergarten and CPU Elementary School. Donned in costumes, wings, wands, and a Grouchy Ladybug headband, the Gems captured the attention and interest of young learners. It was a timely theme for this year’s Literacy Month as the Gems guided the children through animal vocabulary and time reading.

The classrooms and library did not look the same – they looked like gardens as the Gems transformed them into a lively storytelling scene highlighting not only literacy, but values as well. A buffet of books was laid out on low tables and mats, inviting children to see, touch, and choose. After the story, the kindergarten learners sat on the floor, identified insects, and named their colors, while the elementary pupils reflected more deeply. When the storyteller asked, “Is it good to be grouchy?” they answered, “No!” and added, “It’s all about kindness.” One also said, “Being grouchy is bad for your health.”

The Book Buffet started as a classroom activity last academic year under Asst. Prof. Jorvelyn Jaruda-Espinosa. This year, the activity was facilitated for young listeners and readers of CPU Kindergarten. The activity also marked the beginning of a partnership between the BECEd Gems and the CPU Elementary School. Book Buffet aligns with UN SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).