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Hampshire County Council Launches Summer Reading Challenge for Young Bookworms

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Hampshire County Council's Library Service is excited to announce the launch of its annual Summer Reading Challenge, themed 'Story Garden'. The challenge, starting on Saturday, 12 July, aims to encourage children aged four to 11 years old to explore the magical connection between storytelling and nature through books and activities. Councillor Steve Forster emphasizes the importance of establishing an early love of reading, which can improve children's vocabulary, concentration, and imagination. The challenge will run until Saturday, 13 September, with children taking part having access to a wide range of books and resources in Hampshire's libraries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Summer Reading Challenge is a national initiative provided by the Reading Agency, with Hampshire County Council's Library Service launching its own version for children aged four to 11 years old.
  • The challenge runs from Saturday, 12 July to Saturday, 13 September, and encourages children to explore the connection between storytelling and nature through books and activities.
  • Children taking part will have access to a wide range of books in Hampshire's libraries, as well as other resources and activities, and will have the chance to discuss the books they have read with Summer Reading Challenge Volunteers.
  • The challenge coincides with the Holiday Activities and Food programme, with events like 'Junk Jodie: Bee...Insect-AZING!' and 'Steppin' Up: Story Garden' being prioritized for children who receive free school meals.
  • All children who read six books and complete the challenge will receive a certificate and a sustainable wooden medal.

Statistics:

  • The Summer Reading Challenge runs for 12 weeks from Saturday, 12 July to Saturday, 13 September.
  • Children aged four to 11 years old are eligible to participate in the challenge.
  • The challenge aims to improve children's vocabulary, concentration, and imagination through reading.
  • Jobs are available for Summer Reading Challenge Volunteers, with details available on the Hampshire Libraries website.
  • The Holiday Activities and Food programme provides events for children who receive free school meals.

Sources:

  • Hampshire County Council
  • UK Government
  • Hampshire Libraries website
  • Reading Agency

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