Books can be exciting or calming. They spark the imagination and they're lots of fun.
Even before babies learn to speak, they will enjoy hearing you read to them. Listening to you will give them a feel for the sounds, rhythms and rhymes of language.
Time spent sharing books with your baby or child allows you to bond with them and is good for emotional wellbeing.
Introducing your child to books early on will also help with their future learning.
Free books
Bookstart offers free books to children at around eight months, 18 months and three to four years. Packs are available from health visitors, libraries and Early Years settings. They include information on joining your local library.
They also explain how you can get involved in activities at your local children’s centre.
The Booktrust Big Picture is a campaign to promote picture books and how they can support your child’s development. Go to the Big Picture website for free picture book resources, an online illustrator’s gallery and a guide to the best new children’s book illustrators.
Go to the Booktrust website for thousands of children’s book recommendations. You can also contact Booktrust on 020 8516 2977.
Further information
