IF you have a baby or toddler at home then don’t miss out on this great opportunity of a lifetime. If you make up your mind to be part of this venture you’ll be starting the year in the right way and you and your child will benefit in the long run. It is still very early in the New Year so you can even make a commitment (or resolution) and see it through. Are you are interested? Do you want to give your youngster the best possible start? Would you like your child to have a good education and a sense of well-being? If so, then read on.

It doesn’t matter how young your child is you can still participate in this ‘new’ venture. All you need to do is find a quiet comfortable space and a little time each day to be thoroughly committed. If a mere few minutes is all you can spare then that will do to begin with. Next you have to be sincere in your approach. The best way to do this is to be fully aware of the reason behind what you are doing and knowledgeable about the importance and the eventual outcome. Are you ready to learn more? Do you want to sign up for this venture? It does not require money but it does take up a little more of your time the older your child gets, that is, until he/she is no longer reliant on your participation. Do you want to see your child blossom as he/she grows due to your input? Then take heed.

This simple but very effective venture is no more than ‘reading’ to your child. All it takes is for you to just sit down comfortably in a quiet (it could even be a designated) area of your home, while the world passes by outside and spend some quality time to introduce books into your child’s life. If you make this a routine your child will develop good reading skills which will help build his/her confidence and assist him/her academically.

The positive impact that early reading has made on children has been so successful worldwide that the Ministry of Social Protection, Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, Maternal and Child Health Unit and the National Library, is launching a National Reading Programme for children from birth to three years old. The launch will take place on Tuesday 6th February at the East La Penitence Health Centre.

It is hoped that by targeting mothers who routinely visit the many health centres across Guyana that an interest in reading to babies and toddlers will be cultivated and maintained. Some parents need to be made aware that reading is not only a fun and valuable past time, but by reading to their child they are sharing positive quality time that will in turn enhance their child’s development.

A national book drive is also underway in order to provide every child with at least one book. Book donations can be handed into any CPA office across the country or to the CPA main building on the corner of Charles and Broad Street Charlestown. During the coming months, bookshelves and mobile bookstands will be placed at health care facilities. There will also be a series of events that promote early reading with children, demonstrating strategies and know-how and the sharing of information. Here’s hoping that having read this article that YOU have come on board and will stay on board: Because if you remain dedicated to the cause it is guaranteed that by year-end you will begin to see the results of your efforts.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child ring the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to childcaregy@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION, CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY