Butler County’s celebration of the Week of the Young Child begins Thursday.

This year the campaign focuses on “Stop Snoring, Bernard!” a book written and illustrated by Zachariah O’Hora.

It was chosen for the One Book, Every Young Child statewide literacy campaign. It focuses on a zoo otter who can’t find a place to nap.

The Butler County Early Care and Education Council will give the book to every child up to 8 years old who attends its events at the North Main Street Church of God or at the West Sunbury American Legion.

“One of the primary goals of the Early Care and Education Council is to support families,” said Julie Thumma, community engagement coordinator. “We give children the book to promote literacy at home.”

On Thursday, two council events will be held at the North Main Street Church of God, 1201 N. Main St. Ext. The first runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the second from 6 to 8 p.m.

During the day, Peter Bess, the youth librarian at the Butler Public Library, will the read at 10:30 a.m. and at 1 p.m. At 11:30 a.m., Samantha Drohan will present Kindermusik, “Zoo Moves.” At 12:30 p.m., Anne Slanina, a local author, will read.

In the evening, story time begins at 6 p.m. It will be followed at 7 p.m. with a live animal show, “Wild World of Animals.”

The council also will give children a free copy of “Stop Snoring, Bernard!” beginning at 10 a.m. April 27 at the West Sunbury American Legion, 1431 W. Sunbury Road. Librarian Kathy Kline of the North Trails Library will read.

Following story time, crafts, activities and prizes are planned.

Parents can find activities related to the book online at www.paonebook.org, by clicking on “Resources.”

Other events for the week include:

• On Friday, O’Hora will visit the Cranberry Public Library, 2525 Rochester Road. O’Hora will read his book and discuss it. Children are invited to build a craft after story time. Call 724-776-9100, Ext. 1124, to register for the event.

• On April 27, the Butler YMCA will celebrate Healthy Kid’s Day, with an open house from 3:30 to 6 p.m. It will provide healthy snacks, games, face painting and other activities.

Health, safety and education vendors will attend.