The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey will host a free community event called “Books, Balls and Blocks” on Saturday, July 17, at Manahawkin Lake Park, for families with children up to 5 years old. The event will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Rain date is Saturday, July 24.

The event is an opportunity for young families to have fun in the sunshine, but also to learn about healthy development and positive parenting, according to Children’s Home Society family engagement specialist Terece…