Cumberland Council celebrated Community Reading Week from 4 – 11 March with the launch of brand new reading seats so children and families can enjoy reading in the great outdoors.
Mayor Greg Cummings said the initiative is part of Council’s Paint Cumberland ReAD program, which aims to encourage reading and improve literacy skills throughout the community, but particularly for young children.
“We love reading in Cumberland and we were proud to promote Community Reading Week as a celebration of literacy and learning. The benefits of early literacy cannot be understated. Strong reading skills are the foundational skill upon which other subjects are built upon.
“By placing these seats near or next to our community reading boxes we aim to continue to encourage families to read to their children in parks and open spaces.
“Our regular story times with Poppy the Possum bring stories to life using songs, craft and playtime to get kids excited about reading. These brand new seats will provide a place to read and develop skills outside of these sessions and help children learn in a creative and fun environment, setting a solid foundation for future education, learning and development.
“Already seats have been installed in the wildlife area of Central Gardens, Merrylands near the Community Reading Boxes and at the Auburn Centre for Community. More installations are planned for community centres, parks and children's services throughout the rest of the year.
“Council is working towards a cleaner, greener Cumberland and in line with this goal our community reading seats have been made out of recycled soft plastics and sustainably made products.
“I hope to see our community make the most of these brand new seats and used with our community reading boxes as a way to spark the imagination of children and open the door to a lifelong love of reading, writing and learning.”
