It aims to promote a life-long love of books and is based on the principle that every child in the UK should enjoy and benefit from books from as early an age as possible.

Who is Bookstart for?

Bookstart is for every baby and very baby in the UK to get a Bookstart pack.

How will it benefit children?

Sharing books with babies and toddlers is a wonderful way to increase language skills and helps children to understand their world. The first five years are the best time for learning to talk and most of a child's language comes from the adults around them. Babies and toddlers who love books begin reading sooner and have a better chance at school.

How does Bookstart work?

The programme is based on partnership. It's co-ordinated nationally by the independent educational charity Booktrust. Schemes throughout the UK order materials through Booktrust and distribute packs locally.

How do babies receive their pack?

The first Bookstart pack is usually delivered to families at babies' 12 and 24 health check by their health visitor.

Glenis Kinnock MEP re-launching the local Bookstart Scheme in 2005

Ask your health visitor if you haven’t received a pack

More details form the UK Bookstart site here