1000 Books Before School

1000 Books before School programme launching at a LibraryPlus near you!

South Taranaki LibraryPlus is launching its first ever preschool reading adventure for tamariki under five, 1000 Books Before School, starting Monday 17 February.

South Taranaki District Council senior community outreach librarian Katherine Bosworth says that the team is really excited to launch a programme dedicated to children under five, focusing on the importance of reading together and reading aloud.

The aim of the programme is to introduce children to books and reading 1000 books (either by themselves, or have them being read aloud to them) before they turn five, or begin their school journey.

“Children under five are great listeners. Reading to them sparks their curiosity, their connection to you and the wider world. Create new habits with them and read every day,” says Katherine. “The programme can be completed at your own pace. Reading one book a day will see you reach the 1000 book goal in three years, however reading three books a day will see it met in one year.”

1000 Books Before Schoolhas been created to be as simple for families as possible. There is no registration form to complete, simply visit a local LibraryPlus from Monday 17 February and talk to one of the friendly staff about collecting a booklet. Children will receive stickers to encourage them on their journey for every 100 books they read. Once they have completed 1000 books, they will receive a picture book to take home and keep.

“Reading anywhere counts – at the Library, home, preschool, storytimes, or by extended whanau – quite literally anywhere! We know that repetition is important for young children to help them learn new language and skills, so if your child has a favorite book and they read it ten times a day, it all counts,” explains Katherine.

The programme launches on Monday 17 February and can be joined at any time. There is no time limit to complete the programme, except children need to be under five years. Visit any South Taranaki LibraryPlus for more information.