Pre-K Book Walk in Keyes Park through Tuesday

Colorful sign after sign lines the walking trail in Keyes City Park in Du Quoin, as local pre-K children and their families are invited to participate in a book walk, now through Tuesday, sponsored by the Du Quoin Public Library and U of I Extension.

The outdoor reading experience involves a deconstructed version of "Giraffes Can't Dance," a book about a giraffe who learns to move to his own rhythm, written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees.

Each stop on the walk includes a page from the beloved children's book and a fun activity to get the whole family moving. The walk also showcases activities and resources from several Eat.Move.Save. curricula, designed to help families build a healthy lifestyle.

The project is funded through a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education.

Christa Thompson, who teaches Pre-K children in Du Quoin, is excited to see so many families interacting with the book walk.

"This is a great opportunity for our children and their families to participate in an outside activity that focuses on being physically active while building a passion for reading," she said.

The book walk will be on display at Keyes Park from May 27 to May 31 for others to enjoy. In collaboration with local libraries, parks, and partnerships, Illinois Extension will continue to host book walks throughout the summer months. Learn more about the Eat.Move.Save. program at eat-move-save.extension.illinois.edu.