Ms Hawke stressed the message during National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) yesterday; a time when libraries throughout Australia stopped to read The Brother’s Quibble by Andrew Blabey at 11am. 

“I think the temptations to not read are greater [these days] with television, DVDs, iPads and various devices,” Ms Hawke said. 

“I think most parents make an effort to read especially at bedtime and it’s vitally important that they do take that time.”

She pointed to studies that show pre-school children who are read to develop better language, literacy, numeracy and cognitive skills later in life. 

“Children who are read to have an advantage when they get to school and it’s a long way back for kids who can't read to bring them back to the standard where they can succeed,” she said. 

She said the activity of reading can also be a precious time for families to grow as a unit.   

“Reading brings families together. It’s a very special time to sit and learn with a child whether you’re a father, mother, grandparent, big sister or big brother. It’s a really lovely time to share,” she said. 

NSS is an annual campaign in its 15th year that aims to encourage more younger people to read and enjoy books. 

At least 50 pre-school aged children and their parents participated yesterday, with Year 11 Orange High School drama students acting out the story. 

The Brother’s Quibble will be read during storytime today at 11am and 2pm to further the influence of NSS. 

ashlea.pritchard@

fairfaxmedia.com.au