Bookstart, led by BookTrust, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity, supports families in introducing reading to their children from birth to age five. The programme helps families bond, explore stories, and build early literacy skills that can positively shape a child’s future.
What is Bookstart?
Delivered across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Bookstart provides free books, resources, and activities to encourage shared reading at home. Each year, Bookstart reaches over 90% of newborns and more than 400,000 toddlers and preschoolers.
It aims to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to books and the opportunities they offer. Specialist resources are also available for families with children who have additional needs or speak English as an additional language.
Why shared reading matters
Reading together is more than just a bedtime routine. It fosters emotional connections, improves communication skills and sparks imagination.
For children from low-income or vulnerable families, shared reading offers access to stories and experiences that can open doors to new ideas and opportunities. Studies show that early reading habits can have a lasting impact on educational achievement, confidence and overall well-being.
Get started
By the time your child turns one you should have received your Bookstart Baby pack. If you haven't received your pack then ask at a local library:
Dual-language books
If English is not your first language, you may be able to get a book in another language through Bookstart.
Ask your health visitor (babies) or library (pre-schoolers), who can contact a local Bookstart Coordinator about availability. We also have guidance available in a number of languages.
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