Photo Courtesy Patricia Rosenlund
Families in the Rio Grande Valley are invited to take part in a unique event that combines reading, playing and awareness.
Easter Seals executive director Patricia Rosenlund said the event Roll and Read focuses on early childhood development while also promoting child abuse prevention.
“Roll and read is an activity that we have started in the community to really highlight the importance of early literacy, early learning and really engaging with families,” Rosenlund said.
She said the event also connects to a larger message which brings families together sharing the importance of early literacy and healthy behaviors.
Rosenlund said at the event children and families will be able to move through stations at the park.
“The kids roll because they’re in strollers or wagons, and the families go station to station, and there’s different activities, either a story being read, or being acted out or songs,” Rosenlund said.
She said beyond fun, the event plays an important role in raising awareness about child abuse prevention.
Rosenlund said the organization has seen how support can impact families.
“Sometimes families just need a little help with concrete support, and sometimes it’s more learning strategies to help their kids meet their developmental goals,” Rosenlund said.
Roll and Read event organizer Adam Rio said this year will be the fifth annual event organized.
Rio said families with young children who attend can also participate in activities designed for infants and toddlers.
He said he hopes families leave with more than just a good time but to also take away a sense of community.
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon on April 18 at Fireman’s Park in Mcallen.
This is Emilio Suarez for Vaquero Radio.
