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Local Voices

Simon Malls Bring Books to Life Through Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast Event at Smith Haven Mall

Simon Malls® are welcoming families to experience the magic of reading at the mall. On Saturday, February 22, 2014, Simon Kidgits Club® at Smith Haven Mall is hosting its free annual Book Blast event and inviting parents and children to bring books to life through special read-aloud sessions, giveaways and story-inspired activities.

Simon Kidgits Club’s Book Blast will provide families the chance to make reading a fun, social experience with various kid-focused offerings. Book Blast event activities will kick off with an exciting read-aloud session of Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar presented by Barnes & Noble, scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. in Center Court.  To accompany the story, children can also participate in a make-your-own hungry caterpillar craft as well as an “I Love Reading” crown craft.  A special area will be set up for kids who enjoy Play Doh molding clay, along with letter and number cookie cutters to enhance the fun. There will also be a selection of reading and spelling floor games for all participants. Delicious food samples will be provided by Auntie Anne’s Pretzels and Mosaic Turkish Grill.

“Because Simon Malls are destinations for families and friends to do more than just shop, Simon Kidgits Club is giving children the chance to experience all that books have to offer in a social setting,” said Jayne Stilson, assistant vice president of business development for Simon Brand Ventures, the business-to-consumer division of Simon Property Group. “We’re combining education with fun and allowing kids to simply have a blast with reading.”

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Additionally, Simon is teaming up with Better World Books to provide each child that attends the event a pre-loved book and bookmark to take home.

The Simon Kidgits Club is a fun and informative program that focuses on health, wellness, education, safety and entertainment for children ages 3-8. Since 2003, the Simon Kidgits Club has kept children and parents alike amused with various events and activities while providing incentives for club members, such as special offers, rewards and games.

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Simon Kidgits Club members receive a variety of goodies, including a Simon Kidgits Club T-shirt, membership card, birthday card and gift, discounts and scheduled activities. For more information about the Simon Kidgits Club, visit http://www.simon.com/kidgits/.

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