Hampshire County Council’s Library Service launches its popular annual Summer Reading Challenge this Saturday, 12 July, featuring the exciting ‘Story Garden’ theme that encourages children to discover the magical connections between storytelling and the natural world.
The ‘Story Garden’ initiative will see Hampshire’s public libraries inspire young readers to explore how stories and nature intertwine through their chosen books and engaging activities they participate in.
Councillor Steve Forster, Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, commented: “Fostering a passion for reading from an early age brings numerous significant benefits, from boosting children’s vocabulary and focus to developing their imagination and creativity. It’s all too easy for reading habits to lapse during the summer break, so our annual Summer Reading Challenge provides excellent motivation for children to maintain these vital skills in preparation for the new academic year beginning in September. I urge as many youngsters as possible to participate and visit our excellent libraries this summer – membership costs nothing for anyone living, working or studying in Hampshire.”
This national programme, delivered by the Reading Agency, targets children between four and 11 years of age. Hampshire’s challenge operates from Saturday, 12 July through to Saturday, 13 September.
Participants will enjoy access to an extensive collection of books across Hampshire’s library network, alongside additional resources and activities, plus opportunities to discuss their reading with dedicated Summer Reading Challenge Volunteers. Those interested in volunteering can find comprehensive information on the Hampshire Libraries website.
Hampshire libraries will host special events throughout the county on multiple dates, commencing 12 August. Complete details regarding dates, times, venues and booking are available on the Hampshire Libraries Events page. These events are part of the Holiday Activities and Food programme, giving priority to children eligible for free school meals.
Junk Jodie: Bee…Insect-AZING!
This complimentary event targets three to nine-year-olds with sing-alongs, dancing and creative junk-modelling activities. Featuring Junk Jodie and Bobby Bee, children discover the significance of gardens and insects whilst meeting recycled characters including Greyson Grasshopper, Leonardo Ladybird and Betsy Butterfly.
Steppin’ Up: Story Garden
These creative, themed dance workshops see young participants journey through magical woodlands via movement and narrative. Children become enchanted creatures and characters through street, hip hop and commercial dance styles, bringing tales to life whilst collaboratively ‘resolving’ imaginative storylines.
Steppin’ Up, a Fareham-based dance programme dedicated to building young people’s confidence, body positivity and community connections, delivers these sessions. Separate workshops cater for ages four to seven and seven to 11.
Children can register at their local library or via the Hampshire Libraries website. Once enrolled and reading begins, participants collect stickers for their Summer Reading Challenge collector cards. Every child completing six books receives a certificate and an eco-friendly wooden medal.
