COVINGTON, Ky. — Parents and children filled the lawn outside Lincoln Grant Scholar House ready to express their love of reading and have fun as Read Ready Covington hosted its third-annual Early Childhood Fall Fest.
What You Need To Know
- Read Ready Covington hosted its third-annual Early Childhood Fall Fest Sept. 14 outside Lincoln Grant Scholar House
- The organization partnered with more than two dozen groups to help parents as they assist their children with reading skills
- Children received gifts including books, backpacks and other supplies
Among the attendees was Shelby Stoll, a mother of two, who emphasized the importance of reading for children’s growth.
“I think it’s important, even just for social aspects ... and then just starting to understand things," Stoll said. "(It) helps them develop a lot faster."
While the event focused on children, Read Ready Covington used the opportunity to remind parents of their crucial role in early education.
“Parents are the first and best educators or teachers of their children, and all of the things today are things that can be done at home," said Mary Kay Connolly, director of Read Ready Covington.
The event featured more than two dozen partners and sponsors who offered activities and resources for parents to use at home. One notable partner was James E. Biggs Early Childhood Education Center, a public preschool in Covington.
“We already have these materials at home, so it's getting your kids playing and learning, the importance of sound and all of that goes all the way up through their literacy," said Hailey Smallwood, assistant principal.
Annie Rodriguez, parent, said she appreciated the reminder on how to support her children’s development.
“It teaches me, as a parent, what’s going on with my children, where they stand and what other opportunities are there within their growth,” Rodriguez said.
Children at the event enjoyed free books, games, food, and backpacks filled with supplies.
As Stoll continued to savor the day, she reflected on the role of early literacy in helping children express themselves.
“Just trying to teach them how to vocalize with us and communicate with us sooner, so that we can have a better understanding of what they need,” Stoll said.
Read Ready Covington is committed to helping children build strong reading skills, setting the stage for lifelong learning and success.