Did you know a child’s brain is twice as active as an adult’s by age three, with 90 percent of brain growth happening before age five? Reading, talking, and singing to young children build essential skills for lifelong learning.
On April 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Paradise Valley Community College’s Union Hills Campus, the Festival of Tales returns, shining a spotlight on early literacy and the power of storytelling. Partnering once again with Southwest Human Development and Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger for funding and support, families can enjoy free books, interactive storytelling, live performances, and hands-on activities—all designed to spark a love for reading. This fun-filled family event is free and open to the public, bringing together educators, aspiring teachers, and the community to nurture young minds through literacy.
“The Festival of Tales is one of my favorite events because it provides families with the tools to foster a love of reading,” said Dr. Jana Schwartz, PVCC President. “Early literacy is key to lifelong success, and this festival embodies PVCC’s mission to create lasting community impact.”
Early exposure to books and storytelling helps children recognize letters and words sooner, expands vocabulary and comprehension, builds essential pre-reading skills, and increases future academic success. However, literacy gaps persist—high-income families are nearly twice as likely to read to their children daily compared to low-income families. Aligning with PVCC’s bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education, the festival helps bridge literacy gaps, ensuring all children have access to books and meaningful reading experiences.
Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s Education Program, emphasizes the festival’s impact, stating, “As future educators, every literacy event we host is a step toward inspiring a lifelong love of learning.”
For a full event schedule and more details, visit Festival of Tales Website.