SACO — High school students from Thornton Academy are helping young children get a running start in their academics with ABC KIDS.

ABC KIDS is a free early learning program for children 3 to 6 years old on Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 at Dyer Library, 371 Main St. in Saco.

ABC KIDS helps young children get a head start on Kindergarten level basics, said Thornton Academy junior Ashley Salguero-Gonzalez, who started the program in October.

Ashley, who is considering a career working with children, said she enjoys working with youngsters. Grateful for the support she and other students have received from Thornton Academy and the greater community, she wanted to do something to give back to the community.

Ashley contacted the library and recruited Thornton Academy juniors Grace Toshach and Kaleigh Hunter and senior Ky Nguyen. The four girls are at the library every Saturday morning with activities for the younger children to engage them in learning.

“We make it educational but we make sure they’re having fun,” said Ashley.

The program is held in the children’s room.

“It’s a great space,” said Grace. There are tables where they can work with the children, and they are surrounded by children’s books. Parents can browse the library while their children work on activities with the Thornton Academy mentors.

Grace and Ky said the children are very eager to learn, and it boosts their spirits to see their enthusiasm.

Attendance varies, but the girls say there is generally about five young children. Some attend regularly and their parents make a special point of going to the library at 10:30 so their children can attend ABC KIDS.

“It’s not only an educational experience for kids, but a social time where they can see their buddies,” said Kaleigh.

Ashley said the program will continue until the end of the school year, and she plans to continue the program again next school year.

 — Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.