Missoula Public Health will host the 5th annual Roll & Read event on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McCormick Park in Missoula. This free, family-friendly event promotes early childhood literacy development, educates participants on preventing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and encourages families in the community to come together for a fun event promoting healthy choices.
Families can enjoy strolling, biking and walking between reading stations at McCormick Park while listening to stories. These interactive stations foster a love of books while enhancing literacy and social skills. Roll & Read is a nationwide “Parents as Teachers” campaign, encouraging parents to regularly read with their children.
Attendees can receive free vision screenings, bike tune-ups, catch up on necessary immunizations, play games and make crafts. Missoula Rosauers, Yokes Fresh Market and Culligan Water will provide healthy snacks. Families can enter to win a mini scooter or one of two youth scooters generously donated by Scheels, in addition to four $25 Visa gift cards. There will be opportunities to meet Smokey Bear, explore a fire truck and a sheriff patrol car and check out the University of Montana’s bus. Children can take home a free book and free bike helmet while supplies last. The Missoula Public Library’s Bookmobile will be onsite for those wanting to check out books. Community resources focused on parenting, early education and health will be available for parents and guardians.
Roll & Read provides education on ACEs, which are traumatic events that can affect a child’s well-being. ACEs impact nearly 40% of U.S. children and about 1 in 5 adults report a high ACE score in Montana. Roll & Read supports families with children under 8 years old through a critical period for growth by offering education, health resources and community engagement.