Dale V. Atkins, a Greenwich psychologist who appeared on NBC's "Today" show for 22 years, will read one of her children's books aloud at Greenwich Point on Sunday, July 26. The free storytime runs from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Seaside Garden, and families are invited to bring picnic blankets and settle in on the grass.

Friends of Greenwich Point announced the event Thursday, July 16, calling it "a joyful afternoon" with a story inspired by a true event at the park. The announcement does not name the specific book; Atkins' most recent children's title is "Dear Deer," a picture book inspired by a baby deer she watched wander into a pond at Greenwich Point.

The storytime is free and open to all families with children and their caregivers. Standard park entry rules and fees apply. Parking is available at the Cow Barn lot or the Marina Lot near the Old Greenwich Yacht Club. If it rains, the program moves indoors to Innis Arden Cottage. Registration is available on Eventbrite by searching "Storytime in the Seaside Garden."

About the author

Atkins lives in Greenwich and keeps a private psychology practice in New York City. She has written nine books total, including two children's titles illustrated by Amelina Jones. "Dear Deer," published Tuesday, June 2, is aimed at readers ages 3 through 6 and explores curiosity, compassion, and lessons from the natural world.

In a June 1 interview with Westfair Business Journal about her move into children's books, Atkins said: "I really wanted to celebrate the ability of older people and younger people to have very meaningful relationships. I wanted them to really connect and to understand that so much of that connection is based on shared experiences and stories."

What else is coming at Greenwich Point

Friends of Greenwich Point runs several free programs through the summer:

  • Tides + Tunes concert series — Reinaldo DeJesus Latin Jazz Experience on Sunday, Aug. 9, at 4 p.m.; Jamie McClean Band on Sunday, Sept. 13, at 4 p.m. Concerts take place under the trees near the original concession stand. Rain location: Bosco's Bar & Grill, 148 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich.
  • Summer Meadow volunteer days — 8 to 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 30; Thursday, Aug. 6; Thursday, Aug. 20; and Thursday, Sept. 3. Volunteers meet at the meadow near the Cow Barn parking lot. Gloves and tools provided. Student volunteer hours available. RSVP: [email protected].