Children in Cumberland are being encouraged to read 1000 books before reaching Kindergarten as part of a new early literacy reading initiative.
The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program was recently launched at Granville Library and aims to foster a love for reading and help improve early literacy skills in infants and children aged up to five years.
Cumberland Mayor Lisa Lake said introducing books to children at an early age can significantly help their brain development and improve academic and language skills.
"Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) data shows 23 percent of children in Cumberland are developmentally vulnerable when they start school, particularly in the areas of their language, social skills and communication” said Mayor Lake.
“The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a great initiative to engage with families and lay the foundations for literacy and education at a young age. We invite all parents in our community to register their infant or child into this new exciting program to help them develop the skills needed for success at school and beyond."
The program is flexible and recognises that diverse reading experiences contribute to early literacy foundation, this allows parents to incorporate a variety of reading materials including books in any language, books from home, the library, story time sessions, playgroups and books read at childcare.
To participate, parents can easily register online or visit any library in the Cumberland Local Government Area. Once registered, participants can pick up a FREE starter pack, which includes a reading log to track their progress. As part of the program, children will receive small gifts to celebrate their milestones.
To register online or to find out more, visit: https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/1000-books-kindergarten
