Early-childhood literacy. That is simple goal of Surrey Libraries’ decade-long initiative to promote reading to the youngest of tykes.
The program, called “Read to Baby” turns 10 this year. According to Surrey Libraries, the initiative has boosted early childhood literacy in the city as the program shows families the “importance of early and frequent reading” and how that supports the development of both speech and language for babies.
“Parents can help their baby develop language skills and prepare them for future success by talking, cuddling, singing, and reading to them from an early age,” Chloe Humphreys, manager of youth services at Surrey Libraries, said in a press release. “The Read to Baby program works to support families with this goal.”
“Read to Baby” has given out more than 20,000 kits to families over the past decade. Those kits were funded by private donors, Surrey businesses, and other community groups in the city. In total, the program has received more than $230,000 in donations. Surrey Schools also helps, as they assemble the kits.
“Throughout October, families living in Surrey with new babies can visit any Surrey Libraries branch to pick up their kit while supplies last,” notes Surrey Libraries in the release.
The kits contain a board book, a play item, info on free literacy programs, and other things.
According to Surrey Libraries, feedback from both parents and caregivers has been very positive.
“It is such a nice caring gift for all new parents and babies,” noted one parent. “Very helpful guiding tool.”
The kits have been distributed by organizations such as Fraser Health—through its Public Health Units, the Tiny Bundles program at the Surrey Food Bank, and through the Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association.
For more info, or to support the program, visit surreylibraries.ca/readtobaby.