All aboard for pirate books

AHOY me hearties! Swashbuckling pirates are to show their softer side by helping children learn to read.

This year’s National Bookstart Day will shiver the timbers as it sets sail to Oldham’s Alexandra Park for a pirate party.

The event, on Friday, will see pirate-themed activities, a treasure hunt, pirate stories and rhymes, face painting, a pirate fancy dress competition and much more.

Landlocked lubbers are invited to join in the fun-filled day, which takes place in the children’s play area between 10.30am and noon.

Bookstart is a national programme encouraging parents and carers to enjoy books with children from as early an age as possible, with the party aimed at babies up to four-year-olds.

Working through local organisations, Bookstart gives free books to children at around eight months, 18 months and three years, along with guidance materials for parents and carers. Bookstart aims to foster a love of books through a range of fun activities.

Janet Harrison, Bookstart co-ordinator from Oldham Council’s early years and childcare service, said: “National Bookstart Day is about reminding every family to make book sharing a regular part of their daily routine.

“Enjoying stories, songs and rhymes is a wonderful way to encourage children to be confident communicators and eager learners and children who enjoy books every day do far better when they start school.

“All the family can join in and share the fun that books can bring.”

Bookstart champion, Councillor Diane Williamson, said: “We hope the pirate party in the park will be well attended.

“It will be a fun day for both the children and parents, and is also an excellent opportunity to encourage children and families to spend more time reading together.”

The event coincides with Children’s Book Week 2008, which runs from today until Sunday, when there will be pirate-themed activities taking place in libraries across Oldham.