Love Reading in Suffolk is a parent/carer and child-focused programme, aiming to encourage a love of reading as a family; to build confidence in children to read and in parents/carers to inspire them to read. A central aim of the programme is to also provide parents with the tools they need to get involved with their child's reading outside of the school environment and to support them to do so.
The programme consists of up to 6 sessions that are standalone and delivered in primary schools in three Suffolk towns identified as National Literacy Trust priority areas with the most need in terms of literacy intervention and support. These areas are Lowestoft, Stowmarket and Haverhill. Parents/carers and other relatives are encouraged to attend as many sessions as they can.
Key stats include:
- The delivery of the programme was well received by parents and carers, teachers and children.
- There were changes in children’s reading behaviours as a result of taking part in Suffolk Love Reading.
- After taking part in Suffolk Love Reading, 7 in 10 parents/carers said their child talked about reading more than before
- Parent and carers' confidence in supporting their child's reading improved.
- After taking part in Love Reading, the percentage of parents and carers who rated themselves as ‘very confident’ in supporting their child with reading doubled (from 30.0% to 72.5%)
- Parent and carers' understanding of their child's reading also improved.
- Half (47.4%) agreed that they better understand the role of reading in supporting their child's wellbeing
- Parent/carer and child reading interactions became more frequent
- Nearly 2 in 3 parents agreed that they discuss books and book choices with their child more than before
Love Reading Suffolk aimed to inspire and nurture a love of reading amongst families in Suffolk. By exploring data collected from children, parents/carers and teachers, it is clear that Love Reading was a resounding success.