LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – First 5 California, together with First 5 Lake County, announces the First 5 California Express will be visiting Lake County on Tuesday, Nov. 15.

The visit will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lake County Campus of Woodland Community College, 15880 Dam Road Extension in Clearlake.

The First 5 Express is a statewide tour aimed at educating and entertaining families on the importance of talking, reading and singing in everyday life and its powerful impact on a child’s early brain development.

The First 5 Express features activities that provide parents with tips on ways to keep their children engaged through talking, reading, and singing.

Participants have the opportunity to explore hands-on activities, including First 5 Express staff-led story time sessions, a child-friendly library, an interactive karaoke booth, and nursery rhyme spin wheel.

“The first three years of life are particularly critical for mental stimulation through talking, reading, and singing, which helps billions of neurons inside the brain make strong connections that last a lifetime,” said First 5 California Executive Director Camille Maben. “Partnering with First 5 Lake County through the First 5 Express provides us with a great opportunity to reach local families and teach them about the importance of these types of verbal interactions, and help set their children on a life trajectory for success.” 

Children and families who participate in the express activities are given free prizes that encourage them to continue the healthy behaviors at home, including a storybook, toy musical instrument, and activity book. Parents and caregivers also have the opportunity to receive more educational tools, like brain development brochures, tip sheets, Kits for New Parents, and other available resources.
 
“The First 5 Express is a chance for us to connect with parents one-on-one to provide important health information and resources while kids are engaged in educational activities,” said Vicki Hays, First 5 Lake County staff.  “We want to ensure that parents have the tools and local resources they need to raise healthy children who are ready to learn.”

The First 5 Express is a bilingual children’s activity center that travels across California to inspire families with children ages 5 and younger to make healthy choices and understand the importance of a child’s earliest years.

The First 5 Express travels across California to a variety of events including large county fairs, community gatherings, public libraries, preschools and community centers.

The 2016-2107 tour period, which began in August, is scheduled to run through June 4, 2017, and plans to visit more than 100 events during this time.

For more information about the First 5 Express visit http://first5california.com/express .

For more information about First 5 California visit www.ccfc.ca.gov . For more information about First 5 Lake County visit www.firstfivelake.org .