By Nicole Schoen
Sometimes getting children to read is difficult, especially if the size of the book seems daunting and the child’s skill level is not where it should be. An incentive for reading could be a great motivator for a child if the reward is worthwhile. Papa Murphy’s has come up with a program for teachers and parents sure to make any child want to read as many books as quickly as possible. In February of this year, after the store in Brandon opened, it jumped on board with the corporate edible bookmark campaign that started three years ago specifically for the purpose of promoting readership among children.
“Our first goal is to stimulate student literacy so we encourage the students to read as much as possible,” said owner and director of operations, Cole Kilen.
While individuals can’t actually eat the bookmark, it can equal food if used properly. The bookmark has 10 squares on one side where a teacher, librarian, or parent if homeschooled, signs off for the child after each book they read. Once the child has completed all 10 and the bookmark is filled out, they can bring it in to the store located at 859 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., in the same plaza as Wal-Mart, to redeem it for a Mini Murph personal-size pizza kit. The kit includes already kneaded dough, cheese, tomato sauce and a temporary tattoo.
“They’re big hits and kids eat what they make. A lot of kids are picky and they’re creating this so it’s something they’ll want to eat,” said Kilen.
Papa Murphy’s only uses the freshest ingredients from local produce stands like Downtown Produce, fresh not frozen cheese and hand makes its own dough daily so the kids are sure to enjoy their reward.
There is no expiration date on the bookmarks and children can redeem as many as they can. The campaign is targeted at elementary-aged children, but Kilen will honor bookmarks from any aged students. The campaign will run continuously, but not all locations participate. For Kilen, the choice to take part in the campaign was easy since his mother used to be a teacher.
For more information about the promotion or to pick up some bookmarks, visit Papa Murphy’s in Brandon or call 689-8090 for more information.
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