Herman Parish PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM PETERSON EDISON — A reading program aims to foster a love of books in young children by introducing them to the author of the popular “Amelia Bedelia” children’s book series.
Middlesex County College’s (MCC’s) Democracy House will serve as the host to the Make a Difference Day program from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 at its Edison campus.
“We hope this day will inspire children to want to read,” said Arianna Illa, Democracy House’s coordinator.
Children ages 4 through 10 are invited to visit the campus for “Adventures with Amelia: MCC Reads,” to meet Herman Parish, who continued the book series created by his aunt, Peggy Parish. He will bring Amelia Bedelia to life with wacky wordplay, anecdotes about his aunt and insights into his writing process.
In addition to talking to children and parents, Parish will host a workshop just for parents on how to encourage their children to read.
Registration is limited to 100 children; each of them will receive a copy of an “Amelia Bedelia” book, which can be autographed by the author that day.
Also, refreshments will be served.
MCC professors and student volunteers will read to the children, and then conduct an activity related to the reading, according to Pattiann McMahon, faculty advisor to Democracy House.
“It’s going to be both educational and fun,” she said. “I think it’s going to be a great day, and I hope we will turn kids on to the joys of reading.”
Advance registration is required. To register, visit www.middlesexcc.edu.