Missoula Public Health will host the 4th annual Roll & Read event on Saturday, May 3, 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 provides a fun opportunity for families. Roll & Read 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, where local firefighters, Red Cross members, and volunteers will read to children. These interactive stations foster a love of books while enhancing literacy and social skills. Roll & Readis also part of the nationwide “Parents as Teachers” campaign, encouraging parents to regularly read with their children.
Attendees will have access to free vision screenings, bike tune-ups and healthy snacks. Kids will also have the chance to explore a firetruck and sheriff patrol car. The University of Montana’s bus will be on site, and children can take home a free book from the Imagination Library. Games and healthy snacks will be offered. Parents and guardians will have the opportunity to connect with community resources.
The event will also provide education on ACEs, which are traumatic events that can affect a child’s well-being. ACEs impact nearly 40% of U.S. children; in Montana, about 1 in 5 adults report a high ACE score. Roll & Read supports families with children under 8 years old through a critical period for growth by offering a fun mix of education, health resources and community engagement.
Roll & Read exemplifies how community-driven events can reduce the impact of ACEs by promoting resilience, health and positive family connections. Join the celebration of family and early childhood development on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McCormick Parkand take part in an educational and empowering experience for families.
For more information, contact Roll & Read coordinator Jacqueline Kline at [email protected].