‘Storytelling is one of the earliest forms of teaching and learning for children. It is not only good for the development of wellbeing, but can assist a child in making sense of their life and experiences.’

Professor Helen Milroy, child psychiatrist, author

Department of Education and Training Victoria research shows a direct causal effect between the frequency of reading to children at a young age and future schooling outcomes, regardless of family background and environment.

In its first year, the Bookaburras program distributed 14,184 books to 4,728 children across all regions in Western Australia.

• The program is specifically targeted at the critical ages of 3 and 4, when young brains develop vocabulary, oral cognition and when imagination and creativity is sparked.
• It provides a much-needed permanent resource for families, encouraging special carer – child time and connection, building intergenerational capacity and literacy.
• The program acknowledges that one book is not enough: reading more books expands sensory awareness, perspective and compassion.

With help from a new pilot program supported by the Premier’s Reading Challenge and KindiLink, Bookaburras Ambassadors will visit early learning centres for Storytime sessions throughout the state.