Created by Sandy D’Amato (pronounced dah-MOTT-oh), who plays the character of Miss Me, Hello You! Entertainment is a unique website that mixes old-school mentality with new technology, bringing you . . . Storytime Anytime!
Who is Sandy D'Amato, you ask? Sandy graduated from the prestigious Juilliard School of Drama (where a lot of famous people went, including Robin Williams and Patti LuPone). The cool thing is that Sandy spent years performing in dramas and musicals off-Broadway and around the country. She landed a job in the publishing industry shortly after college, and it was mostly fun—but something was missing.
As a working mom, Sandy read to her daughter as often as she could. When she sung the words, made up rhymes, or asked questions, her daughter was much more engaged. Sandy instinctively knew that this time with her daughter was creating a foundation for learning that was based in fun and curiosity. Her instincts turned out to be right: children who are read to at a young age, in a fun and positive atmosphere, become smarter adults.*
In her spare time, Sandy thrilled young audiences at public book readings. She taught music development to hundreds of children, using singing and rhythm chants. More and more, Sandy found herself drawn to helping children learn through interactive reading. Her daughter, a recent college graduate who speaks three languages, still loves to read. Sandy is certain that her daughter's love of reading and learning is a direct result of the storytimes they shared.
In early 2010, Sandy's passion led to the creation of the innovative helloyouentertainment.com. Storytime, Anytime and from Anywhere you happen to be with your child! She is a firm believer that reading out loud to children—and mixing it up with music and fun—easily and comfortably introduces them to vocabulary, storytelling, and intonation and presentation skills.
Reaching children around the world, in May 2011, Hello You! Entertainment was introduced in Europe. In fall 2011, it will become part of the bilingual curriculum at the San Juan De La Cruz elementary school in Baeza, Spain.
What is Sandy like at home? Addicted to laughter, Sandy loves doing jumping jacks and honestly can't understand why more people don't love sauerkraut. Having grown up in New York, Sandy now resides in Northern California with her husband. She couldn't be happier working on, and as, Miss Me.
*Links to a few of the studies that support the idea that reading out loud to your child is important!