A free workshop to promote children’s literacy is being held next week by local agencies.

United Way Success By 6® and St. Joseph School District Parents as Teachers is offering FREE READ from the START Parent Training Opportunity.

Parents and other caregivers of young children are invited to attend a free session about early literacy on Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 6 to 8 pm at Rolling Hills Consolidated Library, 1912 N. Belt Highway.

Children who grow up hearing stories and looking at books fall in love with language. READ from the START is a reading program that teaches parents and caregivers the joy and benefits of reading to children from birth to five years old. Attendees will learn how reading to children helps strengthen the parent/child bond, prepares children for future learning and helps children fall in love with books and stories.

Limited, free childcare will be provided during the program by St. Joseph School District Parents as Teachers with advance reservation. Light refreshments will be served and attendees will receive five award-winning books. Reservations can be made by calling (816)364-2381.