Arizona Children Association’s Parents as Teachers program in Pinal County invites members of the public and their favorite stuffed animal to join others at a Teddy Bear Picnic 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at Pacana Park.

The event promotes and supports literacy, health and general wellness within families with children birth to 5 in the Maricopa and Ak-Chin Community area.

According to the group, research shows most of a child’s brain develops before kindergarten, and positive early experiences lay the foundation for success in school and in life.

People can bring their teddy bear or another stuffed furry friend and their own picnic basket to the festivities, which will include free arts and crafts, storytelling, music and movement activities, free vision and hearing screenings, free dental screenings, a fire engine, free children’s ID and fingerprinting, giveaway, snacks and more.

Parents as Teachers is a free, evidence-based home-visiting program funded through First Things First to support the parent as the first and best teacher in a young child’s life. First Things First, approved by Arizona voters, works to ensure the state’s youngest children have access to quality early childhood experiences so they will start school healthy and ready to succeed.

More information about the Teddy Bear Picnic or Parents as Teachers, is available by calling 480-288-4723.