Keighley parents are to be given the sack in a bid to help their children learn about books.

'Storysacks' packed with goodies will be used to help mothers learn the importance of teaching children to read. Each sack will contain colourful books, costumes and items featured in the story, a related game and a tape of the words.

Storytellers and teachers will use the props to bring the tale to life and capture the imagination of parents. They will aim to develop confidence in adults who feel they lack the necessary skills to help their children with literacy.

The storysacks are the latest initiative by Keighley's pioneering Books for Babies scheme, run by Keighley Library and local health visitors. Parents in central Keighley, surrounding streets and large council-housing estates are given special books when their babies reach about seven months. The aim is to foster a lifelong interest in reading and ensure children are aware of books by the time they start school.

Keighley's Single Regeneration Budget is funding Books For Babies, and has provided a further £2,500 for the storysacks, which are already used successfully by Menston First School.

Books for Babies coordinator Helen Parker decided to introduce the sacks after realising some parents did not realise the importance of reading. She says: "Some people are scared of books or see them as only for posh or clever people. I want to make it fun. I can make books more friendly and non-threatening. I'll tell them the story and show the props first, then introduce the book."

Helen plans to tell stories to groups of parents in the library and community centres, or even in private houses, and hopes schools, toddler groups and nurseries will borrow the sacks. Some of the books will be printed both in English and an Asian language, and others will be developed for children with special needs.

Helen is approaching local firms and shops for big rugs and colourful cushions so she can make a toddler-friendly corner in the children's library. A 'storyshare' group will be based at the library for parents and carers.

Helen is also seeking volunteers willing to help assemble storysacks. Anyone interested should phone 01535 618210.

Helen has visited around 100 parents since Books for Babies began last September, following referrals by health visitors who suggest the scheme to parents.

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