Sharing Stories to Read, Grow, Inspire
21 August 2023
Read, Grow, Inspire is this year’s Children’s Book Week theme and we couldn’t be more happy to support children of today to do just that!
Reading stories to babies and children gives them kick start in life by developing their cognitive, emotional and social development. The Ballarat Foundation knows the importance of reading in early childhood and distributes books to 320 children in Ballarat. These children are lucky to be a part of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and receive books in the mail every month to support their development.
Here are the top 10 reasons why we need to get books into the homes of young children in Ballarat:
1. Language Development: Reading stories exposes children to a wide range of vocabulary, helping them learn new words and phrases, and improving their language skills.
2. Cognitive Development: Listening to stories stimulates a child's imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, enhancing their overall cognitive development.
3. Early Literacy Skills: Hearing stories helps children develop pre-reading skills such as recognising letters, understanding the concept of print and books, and predicting story endings.
4. Bonding and Emotional Connection: Storytime provides a special bonding experience between caregivers and children, fostering emotional connections and a sense of security and love.
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We work on Wadawurrung land
The Ballarat Foundation acknowledges the Wadawurrung people, the traditional owners of the lands and waterways in our region. We recognise their diversity, resilience, and the ongoing place that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people hold in our communities. We pay our respects to the Elders, both past and present, and commit to working together in the spirit of mutual understanding, respect and reconciliation.
The Ballarat Foundation is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive community where everyone is welcomed, respected and empowered to thrive.