"See Me" Family Festival for Young Children May 4, 2008

FIRST 5 SAN FRANCISCO ENCOURAGES THE CITY’S FAMILIES TO GO OUTDOORS AND STAY HEALTHY AT FREE FAMILY FESTIVAL

WHAT: First 5 San Francisco invites local families to its annual, free “See Me” family festival for young children. Inspired by this year’s theme – “Go Outdoors and Stay Healthy” – children will enjoy physical activities such as playing in jumpers, taking dance classes and using hula hoops. While catching their breath between exercises, kids can watch puppet shows, listen to stories, make arts and crafts and write their own book.

There’s something for parents and caregivers, too! Local experts will be on-hand to answer questions about a variety of topics, such as children’s safety, and provide information on free health screenings available for kids, programs that support parenting skills and more.

The annual festival unites families with young children from all over the city to learn about important local parenting resources and enjoy quality time together.

WHERE: Civic Center Plaza
On Polk Street, between McAllister and Grove

WHEN: Sunday, May 4, 2008 – Rain or Shine
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

BACKGROUND: Research shows that a child’s brain develops most dramatically in the first five years and what parents and caregivers do during these years to support their child’s growth will have a meaningful impact throughout life. Based on this research, California voters passed Proposition 10 in 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on cigarettes to support programs for expectant parents and children ages 0 to 5. First 5 San Francisco distributes approximately $11 million a year in Prop. 10 revenues to programs and services that meet local needs.