Bringing the joy of reading to families with Babyzone

A child’s reading journey starts long before they step into a classroom. From sharing stories at bedtime to pointing out pictures in a favourite book, those early moments help children build the language, communication and literacy skills they need to thrive. 

Just as importantly, they help children develop a lifelong love of reading.

That’s why we’ve teamed up with Babyzone, an organisation dedicated to giving every child the best possible start in life.

Together, we’re bringing our Story Starter Programme to five Babyzone hubs across England: Croydon, Barnet, Grimsby, Preston and Warrington. Through this partnership, families receive Story Starter Programme packs filled with high-quality books and creative resources, alongside support and guidance to help make reading at home a fun, shared experience.

Why early years reading matters

The early years are a crucial time for children’s development. Research consistently shows that children’s language and literacy development begins well before they start school. Every story shared, question asked and conversation had together helps children build vocabulary, communication skills and confidence, while laying the foundations for future learning.

Frankie Smith, our interim CEO, explains: ​‘We know that a child’s reading journey begins long before they start school, and that families play a crucial role in nurturing language and communication skills during those early years.” 

But not every family has equal access to books and reading resources.

In fact, our research found that 83% of teachers working in the most disadvantaged schools identified poor early language skills as a challenge, while 85% highlighted a lack of support with reading at home. Many teachers also cited low engagement with reading as a key barrier to children’s literacy development.

There are many reasons why families may find it harder to prioritise reading. Sometimes, it’s not about a lack of interest in reading, but having the time, confidence or resources to make it part of everyday life. That’s why it’s so important that families have access to practical support, free resources and encouragement from trusted organisations in their community.

One Babyzone parent shared how reading has helped nurture her daughter’s growing love of stories:

Her experience is a wonderful reminder that stories aren’t just about learning to read. It’s about helping children connect with the world around them, explore their interests and discover the joy that stories can bring.

By reaching children before they start school, we’re helping families build positive reading habits that can support both school readiness and a lifelong enjoyment of books.

Seeing the impact first-hand

We had the opportunity to visit the Babyzone Hub in Barnet, where families came together to receive their Story Starter Packs and take part in a storytelling workshop.

It was wonderful to see children and parents exploring the packs together and discovering new ways to bring stories to life.

Our Family Engagement Officer, Kathryn, led a session packed with practical storytelling tips and ideas, helping families build confidence in reading and sharing books at home.

Seeing families” enthusiasm for storytelling, was a powerful reminder that reading doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a great story, a little imagination and the opportunity to enjoy books together.

Building a love of reading from the very beginning

At Bookmark, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the excitement, comfort and possibility that reading can bring.

As Frankie, explains:

“Through our partnership with Babyzone, we’re delighted to put practical, fun and engaging resources directly into the hands of families who stand to benefit most. Together, we can help support more children to start school with the confidence and foundations they need to succeed.’

That ambition is shared by Babyzone.

George Looker, CEO of Babyzone, says:

‘At Babyzone, we’re committed to giving every child the best possible start in life. By working with Bookmark Reading Charity, we can provide families with valuable literacy resources and expert guidance at a stage when children’s development is accelerating rapidly. We are excited to bring the Story Starter Packs to our communities and help parents and carers build positive reading habits from the earliest years.’

Looking ahead

Reading for pleasure is one of the most powerful gifts we can help children discover.

When children enjoy reading, they’re more likely to choose books independently, build stronger literacy skills and develop the confidence to learn and explore the world around them.

Through our partnership with Babyzone, we’re helping families create those early reading experiences that can spark a lifelong love of books. Together, we’re giving more children the opportunity to start school ready to learn, ready to imagine and ready to enjoy the magic of reading.