Through its Gift a Kid a Book campaign, First 5 San Bernardino (F5SB) is helping parents and caregivers encourage a love of reading and learning in our youngest San Bernardino County residents. The fall campaign launched in October and will run through December, featuring information and resources in both English and Spanish.
Children under 5 have many milestones, which families often celebrate with toys, treats or clothing. Gift a Kid a Book introduces the idea of gifting a book instead! These milestones could be celebrating the first day of school, becoming a big sister, the first trip to the dentist and, of course, birthdays and the holidays.
Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops by age 5, so it is crucial for us to educate our community on the role books play in a young child’s life. Reading to babies and young children builds a foundation for language and writing skills.
The Gift a Kid a Book message is reaching San Bernardino County residents through digital advertising, radio spots, billboards, community events, publicity and social media. Our campaign webpage, First5SanBernardino.org/reading, features a list of book recommendations by age, a collection of partner resources, reading activities and downloadable bookmarks in English and Spanish.
Additionally, two Gift a Kid a Book Community Fairs have been scheduled this fall in partnership with the San Bernardino County Museum. The Gift a Kid a Book Community Fair at the Victor Valley Museum was held Saturday, October 14, and the Gift a Kid a Book Community Fair at the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands, Calif. is Saturday, November 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event Flyer: English|Spanish.