Parents and children in Ballarat libraries, children’s centres and playgroups enjoyed hearing Australian picture book Hickory, Dickory, Dash based on the classic nursery rhyme Hickory, Dickory, Dock. 

City of Ballarat librarian Anna Parsons said it was important parents promoted a love of reading to children from a young age. 

“When encouraging kids to read one of the main things to do is read with them. Modelling that behaviour and showing your enthusiasm by reading with kids is one of the most important things you can do,” she said. 

“Also finding opportunities to read things like shopping lists and television guides and words that are out and about around the world is another really great way to encourage reading and a love of words.”

Ms Parson’s advice is to keep it fun, and don’t put too much pressure on. Using charts and measures to track the number of books children read can be encouraging. 

Free storytime sessions are held by Ballarat Library at Parent Place on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 10.30am. 

Toddler Time storytime is also held at Ballarat Library every Thursday during school term from 10-10.30am. 

Pre-schoolers' storytime is held at: