Calhoun County First Steps hosted its third annual Roll and Read on Tuesday, October 21 as a celebration of literacy, movement, and community engagement for families with young children. 

Nearly 250 children and families from across the county, including families participating in Parents As Teachers with Calhoun County First Steps, Early Head Start, a First Steps 4K classroom, and two elementary schools, participated in a one-mile walk and stroller/wagon roll. Along the route, families stopped at interactive reading stations and connected with 14 community vendors providing resources in health, education, and family services. 

“When we first started in 2023, the goal was to bring families and community partners together to provide resources at each reading station,” said Keoshia Huffman, Family & Community Engagement Specialist for Calhoun County First Steps. “But now it’s evolved into something even more impactful. It’s almost like a career day for young kids. They get to see all the adventures adulthood can bring.” 

At each station, children received stickers, books, educational giveaways, and hands-on activities. Every child went home with a bag that included two free books and early learning resources for their families. “We always make sure every child leaves with a book,” Huffman added. “It’s all about planting that seed early. Today a reader, tomorrow a leader. That’s been our motto for Roll and Read.” 

At the end of the walk, families gathered in the John Ford Community Center for a celebratory luncheon featuring games, music, a teacher dance battle, and a special visit from Kit the Fox, the South Carolina First Steps mascot.

This annual event is open to all families, including those with infants or toddlers not yet enrolled in school. “Even if you have a two-year-old, bring them,” Huffman encouraged. “You're still getting resources for your whole family. The big picture is: come see what your community has to offer.” 

Michelle Bradley, Early Childhood Facilitator for Calhoun County Schools, emphasized the importance of building relationships with community partners early: “We want to be familiar faces before a child even enters public school, to make them feel comfortable. I have seen several parents out here whose kids haven't yet enrolled in public school and they’re coming up and introducing themselves, and that really is the goal.” 

Bradley also emphasized the event’s focus on reading in helping kids prepare for school. “Early literacy is so important. The earlier we get our children emerged into reading, the more successful they will be in life,” she said.  

Latasha Priester, a First Steps board member and public health employee, summed up the day’s spirit: “It’s a great way for kids to know their community and for parents to get connected to different resources. Being a First Steps parent, I’ve seen a difference in my kid and how it prepared him for school and gave him a sense of family. It’s just amazing.” 

“We want families to know that First Steps is here,” said Huffman. “A lot of people may know the name, but they don’t always understand what we do. Roll and Read leaves a mark. Kids remember where they got their first book, whether it was about trucks, law enforcement, or something that sparked their curiosity.” 

As the event moves into its fourth year, Calhoun County First Steps remains committed to making sure every child has the tools, connections, and confidence to thrive.

Topics: Local Partnerships