A scheme to get Calderdale youngsters reading at an early age has received national acclaim.

And the man behind the Bookstart project was invited to Westminster to talk of its success.

Ben Lawrence, Calderdale’s Early Years librarian co-ordinator, was invited to address MPs and others at a national conference.

Ben was invited to speak at the reception in the House of Commons, due to the outstanding success of the project to engage children with books, rhymes and songs from birth. He talked about his role and the huge difference that libraries make to children and families across Calderdale.

The invite came from Booktrust – a national charity aiming to change lives through reading. They were so impressed with Ben’s work to promote their Bookstart scheme in Calderdale that they asked him to talk at their event, which had the theme ‘Reading Together Changes Lives’.

Ben runs the popular Bookstart Busy Babies sessions in Brighouse, Halifax and Hebden Bridge libraries. They feature songs and rhymes for families with babies and toddlers and take place throughout the year.

He said: “Families across Calderdale can really benefit from the sessions. They are a great way for parents to interact and bond with their children whilst teaching them important life skills.

“Songs and rhymes are the perfect introduction for young children to the exciting world of language and literature. When youngsters see the grown ups around them singing, they are encouraged to sing along and do the actions, developing their communication skills, coordination and imagination. Being with other people in a relaxed environment helps their social skills and confidence. “Above all, it’s fun! Singing makes people happy, and the songs are easy to repeat at home.”

Families can also benefit from the Bookstart national book gifting programme, which gives a free pack of books, games and activity ideas to children aged 9 months and again at 36 months. Families in Calderdale can get their packs from any Calderdale Council library. Baby packs are also available from Calderdale health visitors and the pre-school pack from children’s centres and other early years settings.

Bookstart Busy Babies sessions take place at:

Halifax Central Library – Thursday mornings, 10.00am to 10.40am, and 11.00am to 11.40am

Hebden Bridge Library – Monday mornings, 11.00am to 11.40am

Brighouse Library – Tuesday mornings, 10.30am to 11.10am