Time to talk, read, sing and play
To support parents and carers in creating stronger language and literacy environments for under-fives, council has re-launched its First5Forever campaign, in conjunction with the State Government and the State Library of Queensland.
The moment a baby is conceived its brain begins to develop and by the age of five, 90% of this development is complete.
To support parents and carers in creating stronger language and literacy environments for under-fives, Sunshine Coast Council has re-launched its First5Forever campaign, in conjunction with the State Government and the State Library of Queensland.
Council’s Young Peoples Services supervisor Karen Gawen said children were born ready to learn and the simple acts of talking, reading, singing and playing daily with loved ones vastly improve their learning abilities.
“Over the next 18 months, we’ll be actively showing people how they can make a difference every day, anytime, anyplace,” Ms Gawen said.
“Alongside our popular free library activities, we’ll be out in the community talking to people, providing and sharing information on social media and online, hosting events and of course council libraries and librarians are always there to help.
“The program isn’t just aimed at parents - grandparents, friends, carers, aunts, uncles play a huge role in a child’s development.
“Every story a child hears, every song sung, every conversation you have help a child learn.
“It’s not about sitting with flash cards and formerly schooling babies and children, it’s about seeing the opportunity in everyday situations like going to the supermarket, trips in the car, cooking dinner.
“It’s hard to believe just how important these activities are, but research tells us they are not happening in all homes and children aren’t hearing the volume and diversity of words to maintain good literacy when they reach school.
“Our aim is to show people how easy, quick, simple these activities are by sharing ideas and resources, tips and tricks that work for every parent or carer.”
Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said as a busy grandmother this vibrant local program was close to her heart.
“Anything we can do to help the next generation to thrive is an investment in the future and I look forward to working together with our community,” Cr McKay said.
To find out more about the First5Forever program, visit council’s library website - library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au - or council libraries.