Theatre performances, a teddy bears’ picnic and film showings are among activities on offer during Under-Fives Week at North Yorkshire libraries this spring.
From March 6 to March 11, the county’s library service is hosting free events aimed at encouraging pre-schoolers to develop a love of books.
Among the highlights of the week will be special performances by Hoglets Theatre of their one-woman storytelling show, Wood Owl and the Box of Wonders, filled with music and puppetry.
Northallerton library will hold pottery sessions, Whitby and Filey libraries will have a musical session with Band of Jays, and Harrogate library will hold a baby yoga and massage session. Most libraries will host storytimes, rhymetimes and craft sessions during the week.
A large collection of Family Matters books for parents and carers will be available, covering topics ranging from tips on weaning to improving behaviour, as well as Tough Topics bags with books and resources to help children talk about difficult subjects.
North Yorkshire County Council’s executive member for libraries, Cllr Greg White, said: “Developing a love of books and reading at an early age is key to a child’s future success. Reading to your child increases their vocabulary, develops their imagination and builds their self-esteem.
“Get involved in celebrating Under-Fives Week and help your little ones develop essential skills, including listening, asking questions, taking turns and following instructions.”
Some events will also be attended by friendly faces from the NHS Oral Health Improvement team and the county council’s Healthy Start team to offer parents advice and information.
North Yorkshire Libraries are once again part of the BookTrust Storytime pilot to encourage families to visit their local library. During Under-Fives Week, storytime events will be held as part of the BookTrust Storytime Prize, which aims to find the best book for sharing with children aged up to five.
Children can join the library for free from birth and all under-fives can join the Buzzy Bee’s Honey Hunt for free as soon as they have a library card.
For more information on Under-Fives Week events in your area, visit your local library or follow them on Facebook. Find details of your local library online at www.northyorks.gov.uk/local-libraries
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