Schools

Books-R-Treats Celebration Planned Wednesday Oct. 30 in Palm Desert

First 5 Riverside officials are touting their Read Early, Read Aloud early literacy campaign and a Books-R-Treats celebration next week in Palm Desert.

The event is scheduled 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday Oct. 30 at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in the Palm Desert Westfield Shopping Center, according to Jamie Ayala of First 5 Riverside.

"Reading early and aloud, even before a child is born, makes a difference in helping children prepare for school and embrace lifelong learning," said Harry Freedman, executive director of First 5 Riverside. "Reading daily with children is one of the easiest and most significant ways to have a positive impact on children's futures."

Youngsters and their families are invited to come in costume. Special guests include First 5 Riverside Commissioner Lisa Larson, an educator in the Coachella Valley.

A similar event is scheduled 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Oct. 26 at the Riverside Barnes & Noble bookstore, 3485 Tyler St.

Customers can help put books in the hands of Riverside County children through purchases at either Barnes & Noble store Oct. 26 through Oct 30, according to First 5 officials. Present code #11168473 at any register or online.

"A portion of the proceeds will be donated to First 5 Riverside to distribute books to as many Riverside County children through age 5 as possible," Ayala said.

Research shows that making books available to any child at any time of the year enhances academic achievement and helps close reading gaps, especially among children from low-income families, according to First 5 Riverside.

In November, First 5 Riverside will host Bookworm Wednesdays with stories, crafts, snacks and a free book for every child through age 5.

Events are scheduled at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 6 at Martha's Village & Kitchen in Indio, 10 a.m. Nov. 13 at the Sun City Library in Menifee Valley, and 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 20 at Home Gardens Library in Corona.

For more info visit www.rccfc.org and click "Read Early, Read Aloud.


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