Mums and babies learn how to relax

Mums Roseena Rafiq and Kim Gaskell (front) treat their babies Ibraheem Ahmed and Thomas Jones to a massage, under the guidance of Janet Harrison (back left) from Bookstart and Sophie Begum Ali from Sure Start.

BABIES enjoyed a calming massage from their mums before getting a helping hand towards becoming future literary masterminds.

The event was held at Oldham Library to promote the National Year of Reading, and offered an opportunity to learn about the benefits of owning a passport to learning — a library card.

Mums and babies were encouraged to cuddle up with a good book and enjoy some quality time together, in the hope of developing a lifelong love of books for the youngsters. The day was organised by Sure Start and Bookstart. Sophie Begum Ali, Sure Start community nursery nurse, said: “Children are never too young to start enjoying books, and reading with children from a very young age can really help them when they start school.

“Just as importantly, it also offers mums and dads the perfect opportunity to relax after a busy day, and spend some quiet time with their child. Books can be expensive to buy, so local libraries are essential. They provide an amazing and almost limitless source of enjoyment for all the family.”

For more information on events run by Sure Start, contact Sophie on 0161-633 9951.