Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Story-time launch for State’s first 'Reading to Children' group

A celebrity story-teller and children’s activities will take centre stage at the launch of Queensland’s first Reading to Children program, Communities and Youth Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr announced today.

Ms Nelson-Carr said the celebrations on Wednesday, March 19, will celebrate the start of the Sunshine Coast program - the first to be rolled-out under the State Government’s $2.3 million four-year Reading to Children initiative.

Ms Nelson-Carr said the reading program would pair seniors, particularly grandparents, with children to instil a love of reading and help boost their literacy and language skills.

“I’m delighted Jaime Dunn, better known as the voice of children’s favourite puppet ‘Agro’, is coming along to help launch what I believe is such an important program which will help give our children the best possible start in life,” she said.

“Reading to Children brings together the experience of seniors and the enthusiasm of children to interact and learn together.”

Earlier this year Ms Nelson-Carr announced funding of $2.1 million for The Smith Family, in conjunction with the Centre for Community Child Health, to deliver reading programs in 11 regions across the State, as well as develop culturally-appropriate programs for Indigenous children in three additional regions.

“As part of Reading to Children, Carpentaria Shire Council has received $186,374 to establish the Normanton Kids are Deadly Kids program,” said the Minister.

“It is about to start recruitment for a project officer.”

The Sunshine Coast Reading to Children program is being delivered through a partnership between The Smith Family and local childhood groups, including C&K.

Ms Nelson-Carr said six project officers have now been employed by The Smith Family and they will complete their training in Brisbane at the end of the month, ahead of rolling out a volunteer recruitment campaign.

”After their induction, the project officers will get busy forming local steering committees to determine the exact locations of the next programs, as well as call for more volunteers,” she said.

“More than 100 volunteers have already signed up to this initiative and I encourage seniors across Queensland to get involved.

“Successful volunteers will undergo a rigorous training program before going out and reading to children in libraries, parks and playgroups.

“This initiative isn’t just about reading books. It’s also about bridging generation gaps, reducing social isolation for older people and nurturing young children to love reading at an early age.”

The Smith Family Chief Executive Officer Elaine Henry said the Reading to Children initiative recognised the importance of encouraging children to read from a young age.

“The Queensland Government is to be commended for supporting early childhood literacy and education, and investing in the children’s future.”

To register interest in taking part in Reading to Children programs, Queenslanders can call The Smith Family’s Elizabeth Sayers on 3308 9326 (M-F).

Media Note: Media are invited to attend the opening celebration – 10.30am on Wednesday, March 19, at the Maroochydore Neighbourhood Centre, 2 Fifth Avenue, Cotton Tree. The Sunshine Coast Reading to Children program will be delivered in Maroochydore and Nambour.

Media Contact: Karla Steen 0417 603 409

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