Bookstart
Bookstart is a national programme that encourages parents to share and enjoy books with their children, from as early an age as possible.
Bookstart aims to provide a free pack of books to every baby in the UK, to inspire, stimulate and create a love of reading that will give children a flying start in life.
Sharing books with babies and toddlers is a wonderful way to increase language skills and helps children to understand their world. Parents are children's most important teachers, shaping the way they learn. The intimacy of book sharing can strengthen bonding between parent and child.
Research also shows that babies and toddlers who love books begin reading sooner and go on to fare better at school, in all areas of the curriculum.
We believe children are never too young to start loving books!
How Bookstart works
Bookstart Baby packs are usually given out at around 8 to 12 months by your health visitor.
If you haven't received a Bookstart Baby pack please do not hesitate to contact the Bookstart team or ask at your local library. You do not have to join the library to receive a Bookstart pack.
Bookstart Baby Pack
Your Bookstart Baby Pack contains everything you need to get started sharing stories, rhymes and songs with your baby.
Each Bookstart Baby Pack includes:
- a carefully chosen, engaging board book
- a colourful finger puppet
- an information leaflet – full of tips and guidance about sharing books and rhymes with babies
Bookshine, Booktouch and Bookstart Star
Bookstart is for every child, and offers packs for children with additional needs
Please ask your health visitor for more information on how you can get a Booktouch, Bookshine or Bookstart Star pack.
Contact Us
Libraries Services Wakefield One PO Box 700 Burton Street Wakefield WF1 2EB