First 5 San Bernardino says Gift a Kid a Book this holiday

First 5 San Bernardino’s Gift a Kid a Book campaign is happening now through December. Studies show ninety percent of a child’s brain develops by age five, which is why reading plays an important role in brain development and lays the foundation for language and writing skills. County residents are being urged to consider giving a book instead of toys or sweets this year.

San Bernardino County residents can pick up a free book from First 5 San Bernardino during a community fair on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands. The event will include free museum entry, a pop-up bookstore with free books, Twinkle Time performance, book readings and more.

The First 5 San Bernardino’s book suggestions by age:

Babies – Touch and feel books, lift-the-flap books and sing-alongs.

Ages 1 and 2 – short story books.

Ages 2 and 3 – slightly longer and more complex books and continue to read favorites from years past.

Ages 4 and 5 – Picture books and introduce short chapter books.

The Gift a Kid a Book campaign has a list of age-appropriate books for children on its webpage.