Story event urges families to read together
HUNDREDS OF families from across Bradford gathered at two city landmarks for an event that encourages children and parents to read together in an effort to boost literacy.
Bedtime Stories saw a network of nine primary schools from the BD5 postcode come together to host the third instalment of the event at the National Science and Media Museum and Bradford City Library, which also allowed children to explore the two venues.
This year, the event had a twist, focussing on science and non-fiction in an attempt to inspire families to share a wide variety of books at home.
Tony De Saulles, of Horrible Histories fame, entertained the crowds with his interactive drawing session based around science.
ZooLab brought myths and legends to life with an animal workshop filled with an array of creepy crawlies and Jon Chase helped children discover their inner-rap artist with his science inspired lyrics.
There were also story sessions and craft activities for children to make and take home.
Fiona Phimister, school development coordinator at Bowling Park Primary, said: “Our third Bedtime Stories event was a great success. It was lovely to see so many families from the BD5 area.
“The children thoroughly enjoyed the activities and had lots of fun exploring the museum and the library.
“If even just one family begins to read more at home as a result of this event, then we will be incredibly proud of what we have achieved.”
The school group’s determination to foster a lifelong love of books is in response to the new national curriculum, which has brought reading to the forefront of school improvement plans across the country.
BD5 school leaders say they want to ensure children are well-equipped and ready for the challenges they face, not only to improve reading ability, but also to encourage more children to become book-lovers as adults.