Bookstart
What is Bookstart?
Bookstart is the first national Books for Babies programme in the world.
It is a national programme that works through libraries, health professionals and early years providers to give a free pack of books to every child with guidance materials for parents and carers.
It promotes a lifelong love of books and is based on the principle that children in the UK should enjoy and benefit from books from as early an age as possible.
Bookstart pack for babies Age: 0-12 months
The Bookstart canvas bag contains two board books, a book of nursery rhymes, advice on sharing books, information about libraries, and an invitation to join.
Packs are usually given out to babies at 8 month by their health visitor or nursery nurse.
Bookstart+ pack for toddlers aimed at those aged 18-30 months
This bright red nylon satchel includes two books, a colouring pad and crayons, a book list, and guidance material for parents and carers.
Packs are usually given out to toddlers at their 2 year check by their health visitor or nursery nurse.
My Bookstart Treasure Chest for children aged 36-48 months
My Bookstart Treasure Chest includes two picture books, a set of stickers, a colouring pad, coloured pencils, as well as guidance material for parents and carers.
The Treasure box is being distributed through Early Years Settings.
Booktouch
Booktouch is a free pack of books and guidance materials that aims to give a love of books to blind and partially sighted children of 0 to 4 years. To obtain a Booktouch pack please contact 01202 261650.
What if I haven't had my Bookstart pack?
If your child doesn't go to any Early Years Settings or for some reason hasn't received their packs you can ring 01202 261650.
Look out for Bookstart events in your local library as well as Baby Rhymetime, Toddler Rhymetime and Storytimes.
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