Starting in the month of October, First 5 San Bernardino will hold its annual literacy campaign tour bringing awareness to the importance of reading with and to your child. Every year, these events are held for preschoolers throughout the County of San Bernardino. In partnership with CHAN Community Health Action Network, CCRC Child Care Resource Center, El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center, LISTOS California For All, San Bernardino County Library, and Victory Outreach Church, First 5 San Bernardino will conduct four literacy drive-thru events taking place in the cities of Barstow, Fontana, San Bernardino, and Victorville. Due to the pandemic, First 5 San Bernardino redesigned the format of events for safety.
Preschoolers will receive a bag containing three different book titles, and a healthy snack, along with other resources. One of the goals of First 5 San Bernardino is to help build home-based libraries and to ensure that all children have library books available to them.
The events are free and open to the public but registration is strongly suggested as only 500 bags will be handed out at each site. For more information please visit the First 5 San Bernardino website at www,first5sanbernardino.org or call 909.386.7706.
5 FIRST 5 TIPS on building home-based libraries:
- 1. Choose the right spot. Create a special space where books are kept and read. Make sure the lighting is good and seating is comfortable.
- 2. Put books within reach. Use low, sturdy shelves so your child can safely select the books on her own.
- 3. Be Thrifty – look for deals. Books can be expensive. Checkout your local library as they may have a free book day.
- 4. Let them guide you! Pay attention to what types of books your child is interested in. Take turns on selecting.
- 5. Collect! Stack up on books from your local yard sales, dollar store, book swapping with others, or asking for books as an alternative gift idea.