Books for Bubs

Low income and single-parent families are more likely to have poor literacy. Low literacy has a downward spiralling effect leading to early school leavers, non-completion of educational opportunities, poor quality jobs, lower income, low self esteem and is a factor that can lead to a high dependency and long term reliance on the welfare system.

Despite the numerous studies confirming that reading to infants not only boosts speech, language development, and overall intelligence, in many parts of our community, babies and children are neither read to nor encouraged to read.

Valuable basic literacy foundations are not established and children grow into adults with poor literacy skills. They then pass this onto their children resulting in inter-generational disadvantage.

The strong presence of the YWCA in the South West region and the community based nature of our work, means we had an opportunity to listen to the community. Our research has identified that literacy was a major issue everywhere, but in Campbelltown and surrounding areas it was a dominant factor in preventing people from reaching their full potential.

Our workers provide families with up to four packs over 12 months. A case worker delivers the books and demonstrates to the mothers/parents how to read to their child and how to praise their child. The worker also introduces other services such as Occupational Therapy and other services that can help develop their parenting skills.

This program is currently operating in the Macarthur and Shoalhaven regions.

Positive Life Skills

Contact Details:
Annick Leach - 4629 3431