ORANGE Base Hospital handed out its 5000th book on Wednesday last week as part of a joint initiative between Orange City Library and Orange Credit Union to encourage mothers and babies to bond through reading.
Take Time Take Ten began in 2002 and presents around 900 babies born in Orange each year with a book to remind parents that language and literacy skills are an important part of a child’s development.
“Mums look for them when they come in with their second baby,” volunteer Blue Lady Cheryl Lobsey said.
“Some second-time mums even come in with their kids dragging in their special book with them.”
The program also encourages bonding amongst siblings, with older children often helping read their special book to their new brother or sister.
Having received the 5000th book, Amanda Paterson agrees it is a great initiative to encourage parents to read to their children.
“It is great, we have already picked out a great book for Amelia Jane and I will definitely be reading to her.”
The Take Time Take Ten program is funded by Orange Credit Union, which provides up to $1500 for the purchase of discounted books.
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