In recognition of the April as the "month of the young child" the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District will host a series of activities focused on young children.

MI READS!, a program which highlights the importance of early childhood literacy, will focus on a picture book written by Michigan author Leslie Helakoski. The ISD has purchased 600 copies of her book Big Chickens, which will be provided to regional preschools and home visitors. A Big Chicken Extravaganza is slated for Saturday, April 19, at the Traverse City West Junior High. The free event will be open to children through age five. Author readings and signings, a moon walk, hands-on activities, live chickens, dental screenings and much more will be ordered.

Further information is available at www.migreatparents. org.