Events today will celebrate children

Today is Day of the Child, a celebration of children and books at the Harding Family Center in Coeur d’Alene.

Activities for children ages 1 to 5 will be offered from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the center, 411 N. 15th St. Admission is free.

The event, also known as El Dia del Nino, will include fun with bubbles and sidewalk chalk, nutritional activities, a puppet show, a make-a-book project, interactive story time and more. Books from the Hayden City Library bookmobile also will be on hand.

Block Fest, an early-childhood math and science event, also will be part of the lineup. Created by the University of Idaho Parents as Teachers program, Block Fest is open to children ages 8 and under. It features five block-play stations designed to maximize a child’s enjoyment and learning. Parents will receive a free block play handbook with information on stages of block play and tips to help children learn math and science concepts while they play at home.

Block Fest is co-sponsored by Operation Military Kids, and organizers are extending a special invitation to military and National Guard families to attend and take part.

Day of the Child is presented by the Harding Family Center and its resource library, Mountain States Early Head Start, North Idaho Parents as Teachers, the Hayden Library, Idaho Child Abuse Response and Education, Kootenai Head Start, the University of Idaho Extension Nutrition Program, Campfire USA, and the Child and Adult Food Program through St. Vincent de Paul.

Information: (208) 666-6755.