Niagara University offering free activities and developmental & literacy screenings for children

Niagara University is again presenting “Books, Balls, and Blocks,” free educational events for children and families in various Niagara County locations throughout March and April.

Funded by the United Way of Greater Niagara, the program’s activities are designed for children between the ages of 4 months and 6 years old. Seasonal games and art activities, interactive stories and more will be offered, and developmental, early literacy, and vision screenings will be available.

The events feature active parent involvement, as well, which research indicates is linked to a child’s school readiness. Studies by the Harvard Family Research Project show that greater parent involvement in their child’s learning positively affects the child’s school performance, including higher academic achievement.

Pizza, refreshments and book giveaways will be provided.

Schedule of events:

• Tuesday, March 19, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Lockport Public Library, 23 East Ave.
• Thursday, March 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Niagara Falls Public Library (LaSalle Branch), 8728 Buffalo Ave.
• Wednesday, March 27, noon until 2 p.m., North Tonawanda Public Library, 505 Meadow Drive
• Saturday, March 30, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Niagara Falls Public Library, 1425 Main St.
• Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. to noon, Niagara University Family Literacy Center, Academic Complex, Room 125

“Books, Balls and Blocks” is presented through a partnership with Help Me Grow Western New York, Niagara University’s Family Literacy Center, and the Niagara County Early Child Care Quality Improvement Project, all housed in Niagara University’s Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M. Institute for Civic Engagement.

To register or obtain more information, call 716-286-8309 or visit www.niagara.edu/booksballsandblocks. To learn more about Niagara University, visit www.niagara.edu.