South Coast Early Literacy initiative launches with Alison Lester

A new initiative will see Phillip Island and San Remo families receive a free children's book as part of their regular Maternal and Child Health visits.

Families, early years professionals and community partners gathered at Inverloch Library recently to celebrate the launch of this South Coast Early Literacy Initiative.

Much-loved local children's author and illustrator Alison Lester joined the celebration, sharing her reflections on the importance of early literacy and reading several of her much-loved stories to local children and families.

The initiative encourages families to share books, stories and conversations with children from their earliest years, helping to build strong foundations for language, learning and connection.

Families attending selected Maternal and Child Health Key Ages and Stages visits across Bass Coast and South Gippsland (four month, two year and 3.5 year visits) will receive a free, high-quality children's book to take home and enjoy together.

Karen Treppo from Berry Street Yooralla said almost half of Australians aged over 15 lack the literacy skills needed to meet the demands of everyday life and work (ABS 2011-12 International Assessment of Adult Competencies).

"We hope to change that by starting in the early years," Karen said.

"Learning to read is like building a house. Children need strong foundations before they can build the walls and the roof."

Kathryn Anderson from Bass Coast Maternal and Child Health acknowledged the value of the book-gifting program in supporting families from their child's earliest years.

"Providing families with a book during their Maternal and Child Health visit creates an opportunity to talk about early literacy and encourages families to enjoy reading together at home," she said.

The initiative also includes early literacy information for families, professional development for local early years practitioners, and book displays and giveaways through Myli libraries.

The South Coast Early Literacy Initiative is being delivered through South Coast Best, with Berry Street Yooralla as the lead organisation in partnership with Bass Coast and South Gippsland Maternal and Child Health services, Myli libraries and local early years organisations.