As and active member of the Allen, Logan and Simpson Early Childhood Council, this Family and consumer Sciences Agent has helped write grants that are designed to build strong families.  This most recent grant was designated to promote Kindergarten Readiness in the area of physical activity and nutrition.  This year Simpson County received $5000 to hold family friendly events that teach parents what children should know and accomplish before they enter kindergarten.  Given the strong connection between literacy and physical activity, we partnered with a local 4-Her who had a strong desire to put a reading/walking trail at Jim Roberts Community Park.  This partnership resulted in the establishment of a sixteen podium walking trail that is approximately 1/2 mile in length that holds the pages of a book and is read along the trail.  With the grant money, podiums were built and installed at the park, books were purchased that focused on the importance of physical activity and healthy eating and an event was held inviting parents and preschoolers to walk the trail and do the activities with their children.  Parents reported that their children were able to do most of the exercises that were recommended, however some did need assistance with the more difficult exercises like jumping rope.  Families tasted three recipes prepared by this Family and Consumer Sciences Agent.  This event was attended by 60 families/125 people and serviced by 20 volunteers who donated four hours of their weekend to open the Walking Story Trail.  Parents and children were thrilled with the location(near the ball fields) and the unique venue that promotes both literacy and exercise!  "This is a real asset to our Franklin area, I hope people will take advantage of this great resource," was one parent's comment.