Books for Treats

It’s that Trick-or-Treaty time of year again! This year The WOW! Factor of Atlanta would like you to consider giving Books for Treats.

 

What is Books for Treats?

Books for Treats is a program that encourages you to give “gently read” children’s books at Halloween instead of candy.

 

Why give children books instead of candy at Halloween?

Books feed children’s minds, while candy only feeds their cavities. Books encourage children to read, and parents to read with them and/or ask them about their books. Many children rarely receive books as gifts, so even gently read books are special treats.

In the United States, 30 million adults possess below-basic literacy skills. Eleven million are non-literate in English.
- National Assessment of Adult Literacy

How would I get inexpensive books? Kids’ books are expensive!

Collect clean, re-usable, gently read children’s books from garage sales, library book sales, used book stores, thrift stores, or recycle any books that your children may have outgrown. By recycling your kids’ books, you allow these books to continue to give pleasure, long after your child has outgrown them.

 

What will the kids think about getting books instead of candy?

Kids, as well as their parents, are thrilled by receiving books for treats. They are much more enthusiastic than we have ever seen them when we gave candy. We have witnessed many children running to the sidewalk waiving a new treasure yelling “Mom, look! I got a book!” We also saw a group of kids standing on the sidewalk showing each other their books. And we heard one girl greet a friend coming from the other direction “Hey, this house gives books! Cool!”

 

Who’s supporting this program?

Books for Treats started in 2001 and the idea is catching on with Public Libraries in several  states such as California, Texas, Iowa, Arkansas, and New York. You can start your support this year, it’s not too late! Gather gently used age appropriate books. if you don’t think that you can get enough books in time have them at the door to offer along with candy. Give your Trick-or-Treaters a choice better than chocolate vs. taffy.

 

Want to Support Literacy the Rest of the Year?

Donate your gently used books to Better World Books and you will not only be supporting literacy efforts worldwide but you will be raising money for local charities and keeping valuable resources from landfills. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta sponsors collection boxes in Woodstock, Georgia. Funds raised by books dropped into any WOW! Factor of Atlanta collection box will go towards The Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Project and Georgia's Parent 2 Parent Cherokee Navigator Team.

Fall Themes

Cooler weather isn’t the only part of Autumn to look forward to. The Fall Season also brings many special days and events that make terrific themes for your parties and events!

 Back to School- Get the kids excited about the new school year with a party that celebrates everything academic. Be sure to plan plenty of hands on activities such as sand art or spin art to keep all your guests occupied. Finger foods such as chicken nuggets, fruit and veggie trays always get an “A” grade from the elementary crowd.

Football- Score a touch-down with a tailgate  inspired by America’s favorite fall sport. Chicken Wings, Hot Dogs, & Hamburgers along with plenty of sides and cool beverages should keep your team ready for play. Games such as horse shoes or bean bag toss can be set up for team or one on one play.  

Harvest- Whether it’s Apples or Pumpkins, a celebration about the earths bounty is always in season. Get creative and use fresh harvest items as part of your decor, feature them on your menu, and incorporate them into your games!   You can even set up a photo op area with pumpkins, corn stalks, bales of hay, or baskets of apples.

 Oktoberfest- Brush off your lederhosen and polish up your beer stein. make sure to have plenty of brats on hand and the infectious sounds of a polka band.

Halloween- Children of all ages love dressing in funny or scary costumes to enjoy the tricks or treats of  this ancient holiday. Remember your guests that may have special dietary needs when planning your menu. Try and have Sugar-free and Dairy-free options.

Election Time-Republican, Democrat, or Independent; a good time gets everyone’s vote!  Red, White, & Blue is a natural for a color scheme and the “All-America Hot Dog could be the front runner for a tasty economical menu item.

Veterans Day- Patriotism and service to our country should be celebrated every chance we get. What a wonderful opportunity to incorporate giving back into your event. Have guests bring donations or recyclable items to collect at the event.

Thanksgiving- Good food, friends and fun is something to be thankful for. Businesses might take this opportunity to show appreciation to their staff or clients. If your budget is tight consider a potluck; as the host you could supply the main entree and ask guests to bring side items and desserts. This gives everyone a chance to show off a family recipe and make your Thanksgiving just like the first one!