1,000 Peterborough families gifted activity packs to support children’s literacy at home

Doorstep to Digital, the latest initiative from Peterborough Reads, is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and aims to equip families with the tools they need to help their children succeed.

School closures due to Covid-19 are expected to have a significant impact on literacy attainment, while research from the National Literacy Trust has also shown that some children’s ability and motivation to read was negatively affected by the first lockdown due to limited access to books, quiet spaces and school or peer support.

As part of the Doorstep to Digital initiative, 1,000 families with children aged 0-18 across the city will be sent a free literacy pack with age appropriate books and printed activity sheets. Packs also contain books for siblings to encourage the whole family to get reading and share stories every day.

The families are encouraged to sign up to access further fun activities, literacy resources and virtual events appropriate to their needs. The project has worked closely with local schools, community groups and volunteers for Peterborough Reads to tailor support and resources to the families involved.

The first online session took place this week for families with children of all ages to give them a flavour of what is to come. It included a reading from local author Ellie Sandall, a tongue twister challenge from local literacy champion Suzanne Tucker and top tips for parents.

Parents taking part in the project will become part of a new literacy community, attending events, group sessions and chatting in dedicated message groups to inspire and encourage each other in supporting their children’s literacy at home.

Emma Morton, community literacy coordinator for Peterborough Reads, said: “After our first session I’m really excited to build this community of families in Peterborough. I started this role at the beginning of the year and have been made to feel very welcome by local people and I can’t wait to offer them the same via Doorstep to Digital.

“After what has been a challenging year for families across the city it is more important than ever that we offer support to nurture their development, but also to boost their happiness and wellbeing.”

Families can find more information, as well as tips and videos, at https://literacytrust.org.uk/communities/peterborough/families/d2dpeterborough/ and on the Peterborough Reads Facebook page.