# data[].attributes.body
We have five copies of Bart is Different by Stephane Barroux to give away. Just answer the question below for your chance to win! Entries close at 11.59pm on 31 August and winners will be chosen at random.

By providing your email below, you are giving us permission to contact you to let you know the outcome of this competition.

To receive regular updates about the Bookbug programme, please sign up for one of our exciting newsletters.

About Bart is Different by Stephane Barroux

'Bart has always been different to his brothers and sisters. When he starts school, he gets into trouble for not paying attention and spinning patterns with his thread. But his friend gives Bart the confidence to be himself and embrace his amazing talent. An adorable story about celebrating difference.'

– Kirsty Sinclair, Early Years Operations Manager

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bookbug Book of the Month: Bart is Different

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.headline
Dr Suzanne Zeedyk - In-person Training Day - Love, laughter and neuroscience: Why relationships matter in the development of speech and language

# data[].attributes.subject
Dr Suzanne Zeedyk - In-person Training Day - Love, laughter and neuroscience: Why relationships matter in the development of speech and language

# data[].attributes.body
Three in person training dates available in 3 locations:

Dr Suzanne Zeedyk In-Person Training Day Inverness - 23 September 2026

Dr Suzanne Zeedyk In-Person Training Day - Aberdeen - 7 October 2026

Dr Suzanne Zeedyk In-Person Training Day - Glasgow - 21 October 2026

In-person training days provide a hands-on, immersive learning experience, allowing you to engage directly with trainers and peers in a focused environment. They offer the opportunity for deeper discussions, networking, and immediate feedback, fostering collaboration and practical skill-building.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Professional development for teachers – Scottish Book Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We offer training for teachers including CPD webinars for teachers, online workshops and in-person training days hosted by our team and expert guests.

# data[].attributes.headline
Online workshop – Before reading begins: the six skills that grow readers

# data[].attributes.subject
Online workshop – Before reading begins: the six skills that grow readers

# data[].attributes.body
EYPs get 20% off (EYOC20) by using the following link

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
CPD Workshop – Six skills that grow readers – Scottish Book Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This online CPD workshop for early years practitioners focuses on six pre-literacy skills for early reading, with ideas to support children’s confidence.

# data[].attributes.headline
List of unmissable book festivals in Scotland

# data[].attributes.subject
List of unmissable book festivals in Scotland

# data[].attributes.body
Reading may be a solitary activity, but going to a book festival offers a unique chance to connect with authors and other readers through dialogue, debate, and shared passion. What’s more, research has shown that book festivals offer a range of benefits to society, culture and the economy(this link will open in a new window).

Here in Scotland, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to book festivals. From the Borders to the Hebrides and everywhere in between, the calendar of annual literary events is jam-packed, spanning genre, audience and format. Read on to discover some of our favourites.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover the brilliant range of literary festivals Scotland hosts throughout the year

# data[].attributes.body
Congratulations to Keppoch Nursery (Glasgow City) for achieving their accreditation! 🎊

# data[].attributes.body
Join us for one of our online webinars:

Before reading begins: the six skills that grow readers on 1 September

Play and joy: essentials for life with Ben Kingston-Hughes on 16 September

Sharing stories with Gaelic on 24 September

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Training and webinars on picture books recommendations, gifting Bookbug bags, literacy and more, for early years settings

# data[].attributes.headline
Who gets to feel seen in our classrooms? Culturally inclusive practice through books

# data[].attributes.subject
Who gets to feel seen in our classrooms? Culturally inclusive practice through books

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Who gets to feel seen in our classrooms? Culturally inclusive practice through books

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How do books shape children’s sense of identity, belonging and understanding of others? In this podcast episode and article, we explore…

# data[].attributes.headline
Recent research on wordless picture books

# data[].attributes.subject
Recent research on wordless picture books

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Children’s Ethical Reasoning and Meaning-making Through Wordless Picture Books: A Multiple Case Study - Early Childhood Education Journal

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This study investigates how young children engage with wordless picture books in relation to their ethical reasoning and meaning-making processes. Conducted as a qualitative multiple case study encompassing five cases and a total of 25 children, the research is based on analyses of data derived from classroom interactions and children’s drawings. The findings indicate that wordless visual narratives enable children to interpret emotions, reason through uncertainty, consider multiple narrative possibilities simultaneously, and develop ethical evaluations. Emotional interpretation was identified as the starting point of interaction with the narrative, with these interpretations orienting children toward ethical themes such as care, responsibility, justice, exclusion, and harm. The absence of written text supported children’s open, flexible, and probabilistic engagement with narratives; in particular, moments in which the boundaries between imagination and reality were temporarily suspended strengthened exploratory and dialogic meaning making. Children’s interpretations were grounded in experience-based contexts, including family life, school experiences, peer relationships, and environmental awareness. The study also reveals that children are positioned not only as interpreters but also as subjects who develop ethical and narrative agency. Overall, the findings demonstrate that wordless picture books offer powerful narrative tools that support emotional, ethical, and context-sensitive meaning-making in early childhood literacy contexts.

# data[].attributes.body
Help settle those first day nerves for your little ones starting school this year or next.

Check out 11 great titles for starting school, featuring gentle, reassuring stories with familiar friends like Charlie and Lola and Spot the Dog.

And be sure to check out our starting school book bundle offer.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Best Books About Starting School - Scottish Book Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Help settle those first day nerves with our 11 best books about starting school at Scottish Book Trust. Gentle, reassuring stories can help ease anxiety.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home-zone-src | Summer Reading Challenge

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This website hosts the annual Summer Reading Challenge and Winter Mini Challenge. To find out more about this year’s Challenge and how to sign up, or to find information about using this website at home, please visit our Help page.

# data[].attributes.body
Why go to Bookbug Sessions?

Bookbug Sessions are free story, song and rhyme sessions for children aged 0-5 years and their mums, dads and carers. Sessions last around 30 minutes and everyone is welcome!

Going to a Bookbug Session is a great way for families to spend time bonding with each other and meeting other families in their local area. Bookbug Sessions can also help to build children’s social skills and support their speech and language development. Most importantly, Bookbug Sessions are fun!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out more about Bookbug Sessions and how you and your family can join in the fun

# data[].attributes.body
Need your Bookbug fix over the holidays? A reminder that you can access our huge library of songs and rhymes over on our YouTube channel!

Of course, the brilliant Bookbug App is always on hand for songs, rhymes and stories whenever you need them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bookbug is Scottish Book Trust’s early years book gifting programme which supports families to read, sing, and play with their little ones from birth to give them the best start in life. Watch or listen to our nursery rhmye and song videos with your little one today! 📚🎶

# data[].attributes.body
Have thoughts on our Bookbug App?

We’d love to hear from you, and make this resource even better for you all! Complete our quick and easy survey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
This guidance outlines best practice for supporting the mental health of babies and young children from pregnancy to age five, highlighting the central role of early relationships and psychologically informed care. It defines the contribution of the psychological professions within multidisciplinary services and sets out workforce, training and leadership priorities to strengthen infant mental health provision across the UK.

# data[].attributes.headline
Guidance for the emotional health and wellbeing of babies and young children from pregnancy to age five

# data[].attributes.subject
Guidance for the emotional health and wellbeing of babies and young children from pregnancy to age five

# data[].attributes.body
We have five hardback copies of Land, the brand new novel by Hamnet author Maggie O’Farrell, to give away.

All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is answer one simple question by 31 July.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book of the Month: Land by Maggie O’Farrell

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Bookbug’s Book of the Month is Do You See the Tiger? by Philip Ardagh and David Melling.

In this gently suspenseful book, Penny and Daddy’s train ride takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious passenger is revealed. But is that a furry paw or a stripy glove…?

Enter by 31 July for your chance to win a copy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bookbug Book of the Month: Do You See the Tiger?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking for your next book to share with wee ones over the summer period? Why not check out our invaluable picture book lists for inspiration.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book Lists - Children’s Books - Scottish Book Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking for some new reading suggestions? Browse our carefully selected book lists to find something new for you, your family or your classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
The National Early Language and Communication Project have launched a Chatting Together Practitioner Guide.

It’s designed to support all members of the early years workforce in sharing the National Chatting Together messages with families to empower them to get chatting, together.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Chatting Together – National Early Language and Communication Project

# data[].attributes.body
Make the most of the good weather and get little ones outside with this summer-themed Bookbug Session plan.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover the benefits of sharing songs and rhymes outdoors with this Bookbug Session Plan for the summer months

# data[].attributes.body
I realise I haven't been keeping up to date with accreditation stats.

So here is a huge congratulations to the following ELC settings that have now achieved Reading Schools ELC accreditation:

Angus Council:

Andover Pre School Class

Chimes Playgroup

Cortachy Pre School Class

Forfar Early Learning and Childcare Centre

Inverarity Pre School Class

Northmuir Pre School Class

Southmuir Pre School Class

Warddykes Pre School Class

Glasgow City Council:

Chesters Nursery School

Drumchapel Early Years Centre

Hilltop Nursery School

Molendinar Family Learning Centre

Renfrewshire Council:

Bridge of Weir ELC

Spateston ELC

# data[].attributes.headline
Fasque Family Centre's The Very Hungry Caterpillar story

# data[].attributes.subject
Fasque Family Centre's The Very Hungry Caterpillar story

# data[].attributes.body
Our children had a wonderful time recreating The Very Hungry Caterpillar! 🐛🍎 They brought the story to life by creating their own illustrations and recording the voiceover to tell the tale. We are so proud of their creativity, teamwork, and storytelling skills! 🌟📚

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
FFC The hungry caterpillar story RS WEEK.MOV

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
13K views · 165 reactions | 📚👏 Congratulations to the nine early learning and childcare (ELC) settings across Angus on achieving the Scottish Book Trust Early Years Reading Schools Award:

- Andover ELC
- Chimes Playgroup
- Northmuir Nursery
- Wardykes ELC
- Forfar ELCC
- Southmuir ELC
- Inverarity ELC
- Cortachy ELC
- Stepping Stones Playgroup.

The award recognises settings that have built a sustainable culture of reading for pleasure, helping children develop a lifelong love of books while supporting learning, creativity, wellbeing and confidence. 

To mark their success, Convener of Family, Education and Justice, Cllr Heather Doran and our Quality Improvement Manager – Early Years, Sheena Lock, recently visited some of the settings to congratulate children and staff on their achievement.

For more info about their achievement visi,t our website: https://orlo.uk/dE8rO | Angus Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
📚👏 Congratulations to the nine early learning and childcare (ELC) settings across Angus on achieving the Scottish Book Trust Early Years Reading Schools Award:

- Andover ELC
- Chimes Playgroup
-...

# data[].attributes.body
A massive congratulations also to the following ELC settings that have now achieved Reading Schools ELC accreditation:

Angus Council:

Hayshead Playgroup

Stepping Stones Playgroup

Renfrewshire Council:

Mossvale ELCC

St Mary's Pre-school Class

# data[].attributes.headline
International impact of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

# data[].attributes.subject
International impact of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

# data[].attributes.body
Summary of findings by Galea, Claire. International Research - Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. (2026). Imaginationlibrary.com. https://imaginationlibrary.com/international-research/

Key Findings

After receiving just 10 books, children in the programme are at least 4 times more likely to show stronger early literacy skills like vocabulary and phonics.

Enrolled children are 9 times more likely to be read to 4 or more days a week compared to non-enrolled children.

Programme participants are 9 times more likely to show interest in books and 15 times more likely to actively join in during storytime.

Caregivers in the programme are 7 times more likely to describe images, 6 times more likely to count images, and 4 times more likely to let their child hold the book.

In the UK and Ireland, children in the programme are 5.5 times more likely to spend time reading on their own.

Households enrolled in the UK and Ireland see their average children's book count increase by 30 books.

Australian data shows that caregivers who read to their children daily from birth are 5 times more likely to maintain daily reading habits by the time the child turns 3.

# data[].attributes.headline
The effectiveness of book gifting in supporting disadvantaged families

# data[].attributes.subject
The effectiveness of book gifting in supporting disadvantaged families

# data[].attributes.body
Summary of findings by Moloney, M., Egan, S., Pope, J. et al. The Effectiveness of an Infant Book Gifting Scheme in Supporting the Early Home Literacy Environment. Early Childhood Education Journal 54, 4193–4203 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-026-02140-9

Key Findings

Participating in the book-gifting scheme prompted parents to read to their infants earlier and more often.
The scheme successfully educated parents on the specific types of books best suited for an infant’s developmental stage.

The initiative acted as a catalyst, successfully encouraging parents who were not previously library members to join their local library.

A parent’s own enjoyment of reading was strongly linked to how often they read with their infant and how many books they kept at home.

Parents who enjoyed reading expressed stronger hopes and positive expectations for their child's future enjoyment of books.

The study demonstrates that free book distribution is an effective, practical intervention for closing literacy resource gaps in disadvantaged communities.

# data[].attributes.headline
Sensory Storytelling Fund (re-opens in September)

# data[].attributes.subject
Sensory Storytelling Fund (re-opens in September)

# data[].attributes.body
Our Sensory Stories Fund provides a £400 grant for schools and groups working with children and young people with additional support needs to promote a love of stories in their setting.

This grant aims to provide books and sensory storytelling materials for pupils with additional support needs, their teachers, parents and carers to benefit from. Groups can also use the grant towards an event with a storyteller to bring sensory storytelling to life.

You can apply if you're working with pupils with additional support needs under 18 years old in Scotland in early years, schools, or further education settings, as well as residential units or other organisations standing in place of school for young people not in mainstream education.

This programme is generously funded by the Mohn Westlake Foundation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Applications for the Sensory Stories Fund are now closed.

# data[].attributes.body
This toolkit has been designed to support you to think about how your school’s library or reading space(s) can best support pupils with additional support needs – including, but not limited to, neurodiversity, physical disability, or sensory processing disorders. Inside, you’ll find:

Prompts you can use to consider the accessibility of your library or reading space

Best practice examples from schools and settings in Scotland

Suggestions for including and engaging your pupils

For more information on supporting pupils with additional support needs, see our Sensory Storytelling programme, as well as the Disability and Neurodiversity section of our website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.headline
Babies in Scotland 2026: Voice of the Infant - Three years on.

# data[].attributes.subject
Babies in Scotland 2026: Voice of the Infant - Three years on.

# data[].attributes.body
“Babies in Scotland 2026” will take place online on the 1st October 2026.

Three years after the introduction of the Infant Pledge, this event will support people working with babies, parents, and families to deepen their commitment to listening to infants’ voices within the wider context of whole family support.

It will place babies at the centre while recognising the vital role of families and communities, showcasing how services listen to and respond to the views of infants and babies, uphold their rights, and embed relational, family‑focused approaches in practice.

Through expert presentations, the sharing of best practice and reflective learning, we aim to share how services are recognising and responding to babies' distinct  needs and vulnerabilities in the development and implementation of services.

This event will be free to attend and will be suitable for all practitioners working with babies and families in both statutory services and the third sector.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Babies in Scotland 2026: Voice of the Infant - Three years on. Pre-registration now open

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Babies in Scotland 2026: Voice of the Infant - Three years on.Pre-registration now open

# data[].attributes.headline
Reading Schools Week (16–20 November 2026)

# data[].attributes.subject
Reading Schools Week (16–20 November 2026)

# data[].attributes.body
We’re excited to let you know that Reading Schools Week is taking place from 16–20 November 2026!

In February 2026, we marked the very first Reading Schools Week, a five-day celebration of the fantastic work happening in Reading Schools (and Reading Schools ELC pilot settings) across the country. It was a great success, with hundreds of schools and over 100,000 pupils taking part.

Reading Schools Week is open to all schools in Scotland and will now take place annually in November. It is also open to Reading Schools ELC settings that have taken part in any phase of the pilot programme.

As a Reading Schools ELC setting, there is no need to formally register to take part. I will share details of themes, suggested activities, and opportunities for staff, learners and families as they become available.

# data[].attributes.headline
Research report highlighting the importance of dads reading

# data[].attributes.subject
Research report highlighting the importance of dads reading

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
FI Fathers Reading Language and Literacy Jun 26

# data[].attributes.headline
Once upon a rhyme: how poetry, performance and playful language spark confidence, communication and joy in young learners (5 November - 3.30 - 5pm)

# data[].attributes.subject
Once upon a rhyme: how poetry, performance and playful language spark confidence, communication and joy in young learners (5 November - 3.30 - 5pm)

# data[].attributes.body
Free online webinar from NLT.

What to expect:

It will give practitioners fresh inspiration for bringing poetry, performance and playful language into their everyday practice, helping to build their own confidence with poetry which in turn strengthens children’s confidence too. A visiting poet will also share live examples and lead simple, relatable activities that practitioners can take straight back into their settings.

The session will focus upon how playful language encourages children to experiment with words and sounds, helping them build confidence in both reading and writing. It will explore the role of poetry in supporting emotional expression and well‑being for children and adults, and share practical, relatable poetry and language activities that practitioners can take away and use immediately in their own settings

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Early Years free CPD: Once Upon a Rhyme | National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As part of the National Year of Reading official offer for early years, this webinar will focus on the vital role of poetry in nurturing children’s love of language, rhythm and storytelling.

# data[].attributes.headline
Opening the door to reading at home (29th September - 3.45 - 5.15pm)

# data[].attributes.subject
Opening the door to reading at home (29th September - 3.45 - 5.15pm)

# data[].attributes.body
Free online webinar from NLT.

'As part of our Early Years series for the National Year of Reading, Opening the Door to Reading at Home invites us to rethink what genuine partnership with parents looks like. If parents were truly equal partners in early reading, how might our practice shift? What would change in the way we communicate, involve and empower families? This webinar explores the crucial role practitioners play in shaping those relationships and creating meaningful, shared reading experiences at home.'

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Opening the door to reading at home | National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free early years CPD webinar as part of the National Year of Reading.

# data[].attributes.headline
National Literacy Trust - Bringing a reading rich culture to life across the early years community (24 June 2026 - 3:30 - 4:30pm)

# data[].attributes.subject
National Literacy Trust - Bringing a reading rich culture to life across the early years community (24 June 2026 - 3:30 - 4:30pm)

# data[].attributes.body
Free online webinar from NLT.

This webinar is designed for early years teachers, practitioners and childminders, focusing on what a reading-rich curriculum looks like in day-to-day practice. Through concrete examples and strategies, it will support educators in the early years community to use stories with intention to strengthen teaching, deepen learning and build children’s language during the earliest years.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
From vision to practice: Bringing a reading rich culture to life across the early years community | National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free early years CPD webinar as part of the National Year of Reading.

# data[].attributes.headline
Author reading event - My Little Drummer by Sian Radford

# data[].attributes.subject
Author reading event - My Little Drummer by Sian Radford

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Reading Agency Presents: Marching to your own Beat with Sian Radford - The Reading Agency

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Join author Sian Radford for a lively and interactive story time event in celebration of The Summer Reading Challenge. Through the…

# data[].attributes.body
Please feel free to share this link with any dads you know!

This short survey takes just 5-10 minutes to complete and aims to create an authentic snapshot of Scottish fatherhood, listening to how dads have felt over the past year and what matters to them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Posted by Conor McKinlay 6sc on 15 June 2026

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What’s fatherhood really like for you? Have your voice heard and help us speak up for dads across Scotland!

# data[].attributes.body
Picture books have a huge role to play in helping little ones understand the world in which they're growing up in, which is why it's so important for all families and identities, including LGBTQ+ ones, to be represented in children's books. Here are 13 books which are ideal for starting conversations with young children about LGBTQ+ identities, as well as a general focus on what it means to be true to yourself.

You might also like our top picture books featuring dads and father figures(this link will open in a new window) or our list celebrating mums.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book List: Picture books to celebrate LGBTQ+ families

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These brilliant LGBTQ+ picture books celebrate all kinds of families

# data[].attributes.body
In 2027, Bookbug is ready to zoom, zoom, zoom and head off to the moon for Bookbug Week.

We hope you can join us next May to celebrate Bookbug in space.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bookbug Week will take place across Scotland from 17–23 May 2027

# data[].attributes.headline
Bookbug Week 2026 survey: win a £50 book token

# data[].attributes.subject
Bookbug Week 2026 survey: win a £50 book token

# data[].attributes.body
Last month, we supported special events across Scotland to celebrate Bookbug Week – check out our Facebook and Instagram for some snaps of the fun.

We’d also love it if you could fill in this survey about your Bookbug Week experience (you could win a £50 book token)!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Take this survey powered by surveymonkey.com. Create your own surveys for free.

# data[].attributes.body
These 'Ideas Sheets' offer suggestions for parents/carers on how to interact with their child when reading and looking at books together.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
UK Parent Resources - Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Worldwide Book Gifting Program For Children

# data[].attributes.headline
Promoting good reading habits from birth

# data[].attributes.subject
Promoting good reading habits from birth

# data[].attributes.body
Imagination Library has lots of experience with caregivers, children, and reading. We encourage good reading habits for parents, caregivers, and their children.

Top tips:

Begin reading to your child immediately

Read to your child at least five days per week

Read books multiple times

Snuggle, ask questions, notice letters, make sounds, have fun!

Here are a few suggestions to encourage good reading habits at each stage. You will also find books being read aloud, which you may wish to share with your child.

“The single most significant factor influencing a child’s early educational success is an introduction to books and being read to at home prior to beginning school.”
-National Commission on Reading

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Continue reading to your child as he/she ages. Children continue to benefit from being read to in the pre-school years, building essential early literacy skills as they grow into readers.

Read to your child every day. Children who have high interest in reading are read to every day, often by multiple people.
Make reading a regular event that everyone participates in.

Read books multiple times.Reading the same book over (and over) encourages children to participate in the reading activity through
contributing to the "reading" and asking questions.

Think about it!

Ask your child questions about the characters or the story that require predicting, imagining, or making inferences.
Examples: How do you think Madeline feels right now? If you were Peter Rabbit, what would you do?

Make it relevant!

Relate books to your child's life.
Example: Can you think of a time you were reluctant to try something new like Little Burro?

Begin with sounds!

Point out beginning sounds.
Example: Did you hear a word that started with the same MMMMM sound as your name?

Name it!

Practice letter names.
Example: Name the letters you recognize on the cover of the book.

Read it!

Encourage your child to read common words.
Example: This word, t-h-e, is the. Help me read "the" when you see it in the book.

Encourage curiosity!

Respond to your child's questions about letters, numbers, and reading.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parent Resources - Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Continue reading to your child as he/she ages. Children continue to benefit from being read to in the pre-school years, building essential early literacy skills as they grow into readers. Read to your child every day. Children who have high interest in reading are read to every day, often by multiple people.Make reading a regular event that everyone participates in.

# data[].attributes.body
The next book to be featured this season on the Radio 2 Book Club is Dissection Of A Murder by Jo Murray, an addictively clever legal thriller from an exciting new voice. The book was released on 7 May and J o’s interview with Sara is on BBC Sounds from Tuesday 19 May.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Radio 2 Book Club - Dissection Of A Murder | News | Book Club Hub

# data[].attributes.headline
The Teachers' Reading Challenge returns on 17 June 

# data[].attributes.subject
The Teachers' Reading Challenge returns on 17 June 

# data[].attributes.body
The countdown is on! The Teachers' Reading Challenge is back on 17 June, helping teachers, librarians and education professionals discover brilliant children's books, build their knowledge of children's literature and develop reading-for-pleasure practice.

Free to join and designed to fit around busy schedules, the Challenge supports educators to find new books, fresh ideas and practical inspiration they can take back into the classroom and share with young readers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An exciting opportunity for school and library staff to expand, update and diversify their knowledge of contemporary children’s books.

# data[].attributes.headline
Apply for Live Literature part-funded sessions

# data[].attributes.subject
Apply for Live Literature part-funded sessions

# data[].attributes.body
Applications are now open for Live Literature events taking place before 31 March 2027.

To make sure you can apply when suits you best, there will be a series of deadlines throughout the year up until our final deadline of 20 November 2026. View panel dates and deadlines below.

Why apply?

Live Literature makes author events affordable.

The author is paid £210 plus expenses per session

We cover £120 of the author's fee, and all of their expenses, within set guidelines

After the event takes place, Scottish Book Trust pays the author everything that they are owed directly

Scottish Book Trust then invoices you for a set contribution of £90 plus VAT per session

Events can take place in person or remotely, allowing you to be flexible when planning

Alongside financial support, the team at Scottish Book Trust can be on hand with help and advice for planning and promoting your session.

You will hear our decision within two weeks of the first panel meeting following your application – dates are listed below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Looking for more in Writing and Authors or Live Literature?

Live Literature brings reading and writing to the heart of communities by funding author events for organisations across Scotland

Applications are now open for Live Literature events taking place before 31 March 2027.

To make sure you can apply when suits you best, there will be a series of deadlines throughout the year up until our final deadline of 20 November 2026. View panel dates and deadlines below.

Live Literature makes author events affordable.

The author is paid £210 plus expenses per session

We cover £120 of the author's fee, and all of their expenses, within set guidelines

After the event takes place, Scottish Book Trust pays the author everything that they are owed directly

Scottish Book Trust then invoices you for a set contribution of £90 plus VAT per session

Events can take place in person or remotely, allowing you to be flexible when planning

Alongside financial support, the team at Scottish Book Trust can be on hand with help and advice for planning and promoting your session.

You will hear our decision within two weeks of the first panel meeting following your application - dates are listed below.

Deadlines and eligibility

What happens next?

Your application will be reviewed by a panel, which meets four times in 2026. We'll send you the result of your application within two weeks of the panel meeting.

The panel carefully read and consider all applications but due to the volume of applications received, will not be able to offer detailed individual feedback.

Get in touch

For all enquiries, or if you need to make an application in a different way due to access reasons, please email [email protected] .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Apply now for our Live Literature programme and we'll pay over half the fees to run an author event in your local community.

# data[].attributes.body
We have five copies of Our Islands by Phoebe Roze to give away. Just answer the question below for your chance to win!

Entries close at 11.59pm on Sunday 31 May and winners will be chosen at random. By providing your email below, you are giving us permission to contact you to let you know the outcome of this competition.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bookbug Book of the Month: Our Islands by Phoebe Roze

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Training dates are published on the first Monday of December, March, June and September from midday. Be aware that training sessions, particularly Bookbug Session Leader, fills extremely quickly so book as early as possible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Practical activities, group discussions and up-to-date research and policy information, with a fun and relaxed approach.

# data[].attributes.body
Applications for the 2026 Sensory Stories Summer Roadshow are now open. Apply by 14 June.

The Sensory Stories Summer Roadshow is bringing live author events to children with additional support needs in Scotland during the summer holidays.

The events feature three incredibly talented, creative authors and storytellers who will visit your setting and hold sessions that are tailored to the specific needs of your group. The authors will engage with the children through sensory storytelling or using props, music, and movement to create a truly immersive experience.

Marion Kenny, July 2026, your setting in Glasgow

Gerry Durkin, July 2026, your setting in South Lanarkshire

Renita Boyle, July 2026, your setting in Dumfries and Galloway

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Applications for the 2026 Sensory Stories Summer Roadshow are now open. Apply by 14 June.

# data[].attributes.headline
Sharing Stories workshop - Baby : bonding and attachment

# data[].attributes.subject
Sharing Stories workshop - Baby : bonding and attachment

# data[].attributes.body
Discover the benefits​ оf sharing﻿ books from pregnancy onwards.

This workshop explores how﻿ early shared reading strengthens bonding, supports﻿ brain development, and fosters​ a lifelong love​ оf books.

Gain practical tips and book recommendations​ tо﻿ build​ a nurturing reading routine from bump ​and beyond.

Join our Early Years Trainers in this hour-long interactive, informal workshop to explore how to share stories with babies.

Find out how best to model and share  books and get some new ideas.

Bring along a book of your own choice to share in a small group discussion and leave inspired to share stories.

This will be a 60-minute webinar with an optional 15 minutes at the end for discussions / questions.

Primarily aimed at those working with or parents/carers of bumps or babies, this workshop will benefit anyone wanting to explore and share books from pregnancy and beyond.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams

# data[].attributes.headline
The secret world of scribbles webinar (Wednesday 24 June, 2 - 3pm)

# data[].attributes.subject
The secret world of scribbles webinar (Wednesday 24 June, 2 - 3pm)

# data[].attributes.body
Have your crayons at the ready!

Join us on Wednesday 24 June, 2–3pm, for an online webinar led by Mary Rose Brady on: ‘The secret world of scribbles’.

This webinar offers an understanding of children’s drawing development and the vital role art making plays in growth.

Designed to support practitioners to feel more confident in using art in early years settings, this workshop is aimed at professionals working with young children, either as a childminder, in nurseries, schools or ELCs.

Book your place for this art-tastic webinar, today. Don’t forget your multi-buy discount to purchase tickets for three or more of our webinars or workshops and save 20%!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Expert-led early years webinar on children’s drawing as meaningful communication, grounded in neuroscience, attachment and sensory-motor development.

# data[].attributes.headline
Where to source accessible storytelling materials 

# data[].attributes.subject
Where to source accessible storytelling materials 

# data[].attributes.body
Our Sensory Storytelling project brings the magic of an author visit and the many benefits of books and sensory storytelling to young people with additional support needs.

For nurseries, schools and families looking for accessible storytelling materials, we have collated a list of businesses, organisations and charities where you might find high quality purchasable resources and free guides, including some of our own resources. You can apply for funds to purchase some of the resources mentioned on this list or others of your choice through our Sensory Stories Fund.

This fund provides a £400 grant for schools and groups working with children and young people with additional support needs to promote a love of stories in their setting.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Where to source accessible storytelling materials

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find high-quality resources to help support all learners to engage with and access stories.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Would you like to make a difference on your doorstep?

# data[].attributes.body
Thank you to everyone who has now submitted their Evidence Plan for review, and also to those of you who have been in touch to request an extension.

Our accreditation team now has the exciting task of reviewing these and we are already loving reading your comments, quotes and observations and looking at your photos and videos!

# data[].attributes.body
Congratulations to Spateston ELCC in Renfrewshire for achieving their Reading Schools ELC accreditation 🎊

# data[].attributes.headline
Let's Lend a Haun: Teaching Scots with Confidence online session (Tuesday 9th June 26 - 4.30 - 5.30pm)

# data[].attributes.subject
Let's Lend a Haun: Teaching Scots with Confidence online session (Tuesday 9th June 26 - 4.30 - 5.30pm)

# data[].attributes.body
The main audience for this is primary schools, however, there will also be a focus on Early level - including resources, practical ideas and activities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Let’s Lend a Haun: Teaching Scots with Confidence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scottish Book Trust introduces ScotsHoose Yaldi for an inspiring session on how to incorporate Scots into your classroom teaching.

# data[].attributes.headline
Scots language in the Early Years - find oot mair!

# data[].attributes.subject
Scots language in the Early Years - find oot mair!

# data[].attributes.body
Check out the fun, silly and engaging Scots Language resources from Scots Hoose Yaldi!

Early Years – ScotsHoose Yaldi

# data[].attributes.body
Max’s Big Move is a story created with children from Armed Forces families, designed to support families and the practitioners who work alongside them as they experience change — including the transition to civilian life.

Co-written with pupils from Leuchars Primary School, the story reflects real experiences of leaving the patch, adjusting to new environments, and navigating feelings of belonging and uncertainty.

Through Max’s journey, young readers can see their feelings represented, begin to make sense of change, and feel reassured that they are not alone.

On this page, you’ll find the story brought to life through an animated read-aloud and a range of playful, supportive resources for use at home, in Early Years settings and in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.headline
Bookbug symbolised resources and print disability support

# data[].attributes.subject
Bookbug symbolised resources and print disability support

# data[].attributes.body
Sign up for a free account to access these resources.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Bookbug is Scottish Book Trust's Early Years programme that aims to help children develop a love of books and reading by providing four free bags of books to every child in Scotland during their first five years. Families can attend free story, song and rhyme sessions - Bookbug Sessions - in libraries and other community venues. Free Bookbug training is available for practitioners who work with families.

CALL Scotland has worked with the Scottish Book Trust to create a fantastic pack of award winning symbolised resources to accompany these books. They can be used with pupils with Additional Support Needs and those with communication difficulties. The resources include Go Talk 9+ overlays to go with each story and vocabulary sheets to go with each board to help with recording the messages.

The symbolised resources have been created for:

Where can I get the symbolised resources?

Simply click on the links below!

We hope these packs will make the Book Awards into a fun and inclusive project for all your pupils to enjoy and really take part in.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bookbug is Scottish Book Trust's Early Years programme that aims to help children develop a love of books and reading by providing four free bags of books to every child in Scotland during their first five years. Families can attend free story, song and rhyme sessions - Bookbug Sessions - in libraries and other community venues.

# data[].attributes.body
We have thoroughly enjoyed taking part in Bookbug Week. The children were excited to explore new stories, join in with familiar songs and rhymes, and share books with their friends. They loved spending time outdoors for our picnic and play, and the special Bookbug session helped everyone feel connected through music, rhythm and storytelling. Families joined in with enthusiasm, and the children were proud to take home their little Bookbug gift to continue the joy of reading at home.

# data[].attributes.headline
Soundplay Summerfest 2026: Weekend One - Sunday 7th June

# data[].attributes.subject
Soundplay Summerfest 2026: Weekend One - Sunday 7th June

# data[].attributes.body
A chance to explore our unique accessible Playspace in Glasgow city centre. With live music, guest artists and new work from Soundplay!

Soundplay Projects use technology to weave together music, sound, visuals and sensory materials to create carefully crafted spaces and objects that help people play and make music together.

These sessions at their Glasgow Playspace are a chance to play with sound, music and light in a relaxed environment. There will be live electronic/oboe from viral internet star Molly Sellors (@mollysellors); new intaractive work from Soundplay Artist-In-Residence Shiori Usui (@shiosui) as well as new pieces from Soundplay Projects to explore.

There are 3 slots: a relaxed slot for people with additional needs from 10.30-11.30m

Then 2 further drop-in sessions at 12-1.30pm and 2-3.30 pm

We ask for a small donation for the tickets: please reserve a ticket for each person coming, eg. 3 tickets for 1 adult, 2 children.

Photos by Tiu Makkonen

Supported by Glasgow Life's 2026 Festival Fund

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A chance to explore our unique accessible Playspace in Glasgow city centre. With live music, guest artists and new work from Soundplay!

Soundplay Projects use technology to weave together music, sound, visuals and sensory materials to create carefully crafted spaces and objects that help people play and make music together.

These sessions at their Glasgow Playspace are a chance to play with sound, music and light in a relaxed environment. There will be live electronic/oboe from viral internet star Molly Sellors (@mollysellors); new intaractive work from Soundplay Artist-In-Residence Shiori Usui (@shiosui) as well as new pieces from Soundplay Projects to explore

There are 3 slots: a relaxed slot for people with additional needs from 10.30-11.30m

Then 2 further drop-in sessions at 12-1.30pm and 2-3.30 pm

We ask for a small donation for the tickets: please reserve a ticket for each person coming, eg. 3 tickets for 1 adult, 2 children.

Photos by Tiu Makkonen

Supported by Glasgow Life's 2026 Festival Fund

Read more

Highlights

5 hours 30 minutes

all ages

In person

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

Location

51 Cadogan St

51 Cadogan Street

Glasgow G2 7HF

How do you want to get there?

Show map

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
soundplay summerfest 2026: weekend one - sunday 7th june

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
soundplay summerfest 2026: weekend one - sunday 7th june tickets

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
soundplay summerfest 2026: weekend one - sunday 7th june glasgow

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
soundplay summerfest 2026: weekend one - sunday 7th june glasgow tickets

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Soundplay Summerfest 2026: Weekend One - Sunday 7th June

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Eventbrite - Soundplay Projects presents Soundplay Summerfest 2026: Weekend One - Sunday 7th June - Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 51 Cadogan St, Glasgow, Glasgow. Find event and ticket information.

# data[].attributes.headline
Soundplay Summer Sessions 2026: Weekend One - Saturday 6th June

# data[].attributes.subject
Soundplay Summer Sessions 2026: Weekend One - Saturday 6th June

# data[].attributes.body
Soundplay Summer Sessions 2026: Weekend One - Saturday 6th June Tickets, Saturday, June 6  •  12 PM - 4 PM | Eventbrite

A chance to explore our unique accessible Playspace in Glasgow city centre. With live music, guest artists and new work from Soundplay!

At Soundplay Projects, we use technology to weave together music, sound, visuals and sensory materials to create carefully crafted spaces and objects that help people play and make music together.

These summer sessions at our Glasgow Playspace are a chance to play with sound, music and light in a relaxed environment. There will be live electronic/oboe from viral internet star Molly Sellors (@mollysellors); 'Musical Swing' a new intaractive work from Soundplay Artist-In-Residence Shiori Usui (@shiosui); as well as new pieces from Soundplay Projects to explore

There are 3 slots: a relaxed slot for people with additional needs from 10.30-11.30m

Then 2 further drop-in sessions at 12-1.30pm and 2-3.30 pm

As the event is funded, tickets are free but please only book if you are coming: if you can't make it, cancel your ticket so someone else can come in your place. Please reserve a ticket for each person coming, eg. 3 tickets for 1 adult, 2 children.

Photos by Tiu Makkonen

Supported by Glasgow Life's 2026 Festival Fund

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Outside In by Daniel Thompson is our fourth book in the Blue Peter Book Club for 2026 and it’s all about discovering the wonders of nature. Packed with over 50 beautifully written and illustrated poems, this collection is sure to inspire you to head outdoors and see the natural world in a whole new way.

# data[].attributes.body
Check out this list of inclusive books for children of different ages by clicking on the link.

You can also join Inclusive Books for Children (IBC) on 17 June for a free online panel hosted by IBC and author Rashmi Sirdeshpande, exploring why inclusive children’s books don’t always have to teach a lesson.

Our lives aren’t lived as learning points, and the books children read shouldn’t always have to be either.

We’ll be talking about humour, joy and the freedom to write inclusive stories that are, above all, a brilliant read.

Inclusive stories can be funny too Tickets, Wednesday, June 17  •  7 PM - 8:15 PM GMT+1 | Eventbrite

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The best diverse kids’ books: April 2026 (ages 1-9)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The IBC monthly round-up of the best new inclusive children’s books published in the UK. Reviewed by experts and checked for authentic representation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Everyone knows the benefits of reading: it expands your world, sharpens your mind. It might even make you more creative or successful.

# data[].attributes.headline
Accessible Book & Story Festival (11 - 12 September 2026)

# data[].attributes.subject
Accessible Book & Story Festival (11 - 12 September 2026)

# data[].attributes.body
We believe that everyone can enjoy a good story!

The Accessible Book & Story Festival is unique in its focus on books and stories for children with additional needs. Join us for a magical mix of inclusive family story sessions, practical skills-building workshops, sensory storytelling and an inspiring exploration of accessible books.

For families, teachers, librarians, publishers, authors and others.

The festival hub will be at the Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh in September 2026. Alongside this will be an outreach programme for adults and children with additional needs across Scotland.

The festival was started by My Kind of Book in 2024 in response to research we carried out with families and ASN schools.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Accessible Book & Story Festival 2026 - My Kind of Book

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
11-12 September 2026, with online and outreach events across Scotland throughout September

# data[].attributes.headline
Sensory resources to support well loved books

# data[].attributes.subject
Sensory resources to support well loved books

# data[].attributes.body
Edinburgh International Book Festival commissioned My Kind of Book to create the resources linked to below.

They’ll help you adapt some well-loved story books to make them more accessible for children and adults with additional needs.

Pirate Stew – sensory resource
by Neil Gaiman and Chris Riddell. All aboard to make an adventurous pirate stew from house-hold items!

Hey You – sensory resource
by Dapo Adeola. An empowering exploration of growing up black.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse – sensory resource
by Charlie Mackesy. So many people love this book, we were delighted to create a sensory version.

Lifesize Deadly Animals – sensory resource
by Sophy Henn. This is a lot of fun for children who like their animals scary!

Ready for Spaghetti – sensory resource
by Michael Rosen and Polly Dunbar. A book full of poems that use fun sensory language – now add in the props!

Granny Came Here On The Empire Windrush – sensory resource
by Patrice Lawrence and Camilla Sucre. This is a great sensory introduction to Black British history.

It’s Only One – sensory resource
by Tracey Corderoy and Tony Neal. This resource is great if you are tackling themes of looking after the environment, litter and citizenship.

The Teey Weeny Genie – sensory resource
by Julia Donaldson and Anna Currey. All the usual fun from Julia Donaldson – now with added sensory props!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A podcast for teachers, librarians, and parents who are passionate about supporting children’s and teenagers’ reading for pleasure. We dive into the vibrant world of children’s and YA literature, offering expert book recommendations, engaging auth…

# data[].attributes.headline
Boost your evidence - Specific key area tip (1) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Boost your evidence - Specific key area tip (1) 

# data[].attributes.body
Key Area 2.3 Access to Authors

We realise that it can be difficult to arrange for published authors to visit your setting.

Remember that there are other ways to tackle this:

1. Do you have any parents who are authors, illustrators or storytellers as part of their job or as a hobby?

2. You can access live and recorded author events on the Scottish Book Trust website: Authors Live - Scottish Book Trust

3. The Bookbug app and the Scottish Book Trust's online song and rhyme library offer a wealth of resources to allow children to listen, watch and join in with stories, songs and rhymes.

4. There are also many different voice recordings, video clips or interviews with authors online. Always remember to listen to/watch these first before showing them to your learners.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
From Scottish Book Trust in partnership with BBC Scotland Learning

# data[].attributes.headline
Scottish Library and information Council (SLiC) - Scottish Reader Development Strategy 

# data[].attributes.subject
Scottish Library and information Council (SLiC) - Scottish Reader Development Strategy 

# data[].attributes.body
The Scottish Reader Development Strategy - The Scottish Library and Information Council

The Vision

To inspire and empower every person in Scotland to discover the joy and benefits of reading in every form, and to foster a culture of creativity, curiosity and collaboration through books and libraries.

Our strategy aims to support the vision by:

• Celebrating reading: Cultivating a nation of readers with reading viewed as a valuable and enjoyable activity for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

• Promoting accessibility: Ensuring free access to a diverse range of reading materials in a variety of formats for all ages and abilities.

• Encouraging inclusivity, diversity and culture:

Celebrating and supporting language, cultural diversity, and making reading a shared and inclusive experience across all communities.

Supporting literacy: Enhance literacy levels across all age groups, with a particular focus on children and young people using Every Child a Library Member as the framework for children’s engagement with libraries.

• Fostering positive health and wellbeing: Recognising the role of reading in improving mental health and wellbeing.

• Building partnerships and fairer communities: Collaborating with authors, schools, libraries and organisations to create a vibrant reading culture.

• Innovative reader engagement: Sharing best practice and creative programming to engage readers in new and exciting ways.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Scottish Library and Information Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
The Scottish Library and Information Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Scottish Reader Development Strategy - The Scottish Library and Information Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
benefit Scotland’s people and enrich our cultural, educational and economic landscape

# data[].attributes.body
We would love to hear what you are doing this week to celebrate Bookbug Week. Please share some photos and comments in this section :)

# data[].attributes.headline
Want to watch and listen to more stories online? Check out Brightly Storytime!

# data[].attributes.subject
Want to watch and listen to more stories online? Check out Brightly Storytime!

# data[].attributes.body
Great to show to your learners!!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
🐟 DON'T TRUST FISH - Read Aloud with the Author | Brightly Storytime

# data[].attributes.headline
Want to boost early literacy skills? Try singing! 

# data[].attributes.subject
Want to boost early literacy skills? Try singing! 

# data[].attributes.body
This report is from the US but the key messages are still very pertinent to early years education in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Want to boost early literacy skills? Try singing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Experts say music can help prepare children for reading success.

# data[].attributes.headline
Many congratulations to Northmuir Pre-School Class!

# data[].attributes.subject
Many congratulations to Northmuir Pre-School Class!

# data[].attributes.body
A huge achievement for Northmuir Pre-School Class, as they are the first ELC setting to achieve their Reading Schools ELC accreditation within Angus Council (for this phase)!

# data[].attributes.wish_content.attachment_props.alternative_text
Many congratulations to Northmuir Pre-School Class!

# data[].attributes.headline
Book Trust's National Family Survey Results

# data[].attributes.subject
Book Trust's National Family Survey Results

# data[].attributes.body
Key takeaways

90% of parents and carers report high levels of enjoyment from reading with their child. However, daily shared reading has fallen markedly since 2021.

Reading habits vary across groups in ways that reflect broader inequalities in time, routine stability, resources and caregiving support.

Families want their children to spend more time reading, but many feel they require help to make this happen.

Solutions include: establishing a shared reading habit in the first year of life, improving book access, and providing support to families that is integrated across the services they access.

# data[].attributes.headline
Books and other materials from The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland 

# data[].attributes.subject
Books and other materials from The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland 

# data[].attributes.body
Thanks to Jo from Little Leapers ELC in Angus for highlighting this free resource. It's a great book for introducing and teaching children about children's rights.

It is also available in Gaelic: Coimhead air ar Còraichean (Let’s Explore Our Rights) - The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland

And in Scots: Let’s Explore Oor Richts - The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland

For those of you working with children with a range of different languages, there are excellent UNCRC symbols posters to support this: Learning about human rights Archives - The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Date published on site:

Our book for young children Illustrated by Corinna Campbell

"Let's Explore Our Rights" teaches young children about their human rights. The book which features iconic Scots landmarks is aimed at children aged up to five. It was beautifully illustrated by Corinna Campbell and takes readers on a journey to discover rights like having a safe home, being healthy, learning, and playing. The book will support early years practitioners to spark first conversations about human rights with very young children.

The book was created in response to requests from early years practitioners for a resource to help them talk about human rights with children. The book aims to explain in a gentle, age-appropriate way what rights are and why they are important, and to support even very young children to understand their rights and to challenge adults in power when they feel their rights aren't being respected. The children from Lochardil Primary School Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) played a vital role in creating the book, with their ideas helping to create and refine the illustrations, and some of their own drawings included. The book will be provided to every local authority nursery in Scotland before the end of term, with a Gaelic edition in production.

You can download or view a copy of the book below. We also have some physical copies available to order. Please email administration@cypcs.org.uk to find out more.

A reading of the book by Isla, age 8.

We also have a British Sign Language version of the book. BSL Version

Downloads

You can download or browse the book below. We also have some rights explorers badges which can be downloaded, printed, cut out and fed into your chosen badge-making machine!

We also have some physical copies of the book available to order. Please email administration@cypcs.org.uk to find out more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"Let's Explore Our Rights" is a beautifully illustrated book that teaches young children about their human rights through iconic Scots landmarks. This resource, supported by early years practitioners, aims to spark first conversations about human rights with children aged up to five, explaining in a gentle and age-appropriate way what rights are and why they are important.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an excellent resource for exploring children's rights with our children and young people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
With support from the Cattanach Trust, the Year of Childhood specifically focused on the Early Years Sector, namely identifying and amplifying good practice in early years settings. highlighting impact for children, families and communities. By engaging parents/carers in conversations/webinars around the importance of embedding children's rights in their earliest years and identifying good practice internationally via a webinar series, we highlighted the challenges and opportunities of embedding children's rights in the early years and encouraged new contacts (parents/carers, professionals) to join the wider Unfeartie network.

Our discussions, checklist and observations were focused on what a rights-based approach would be. We concluded that the foundation of rights-based practice is the following 5 pillars:

Rights-based relationships are based on kindness, empathy, trust, and belief in the human dignity of each and every one of us.

In your practice, how would you describe the relationships you have with children? Or the relationships you help foster between children?

How do you support children to thrive?

How do you think relationships in a setting can support the rights of the child?

When we talk about 'agency' it means that a person has a level of control and a positive sense of who they are.

We want children in early years' settings to develop a strong sense of who they are and to feel they can have and express their preferences, likes, dislikes, opinions.

What have you seen, or done, in an early years setting that would support children with things like having their say, being part of planning, leading activities, being recognised as an individual?

The concept of rights can be challenging for our youngest learners. It is important though that we help children to develop an understanding that their rights are central to everyday experiences and relationships.

Children might begin to develop an understanding that they have the right to be safe, to play, to be loved.

How could you help children understand their rights? You could think about how you or other adults interact with children, or perhaps some of the activities or resources you use.

When we think about how we promote, protect and fulfil the rights of children we need to remember how important we are as the adults in the room.

How would you describe the kind of person you are in your work with children?

How do you think children would describe you?

What personal qualities, behaviours, knowledge and experiences do you bring to help you be a champion for children's rights?

What are your expectations of other adults in the setting when it comes to how they are with children and indeed with each other?

To help us promote, protect and fulfil the rights of children we need to be able to talk about rights, to use the word rights and be clear it is what we are interested in. If we work to understand the 5 pillars we can begin to build confidence to use words that help us be clear about our commitment to the rights of the child.

How confident do you feel about talking about the rights of the child with other adults in the early years setting?

How confident do you feel to talk with children about their rights?

Can you think about examples of how you have or could talk with others about rights?

For full learning of these 5 pillars, register for a free account on our eLearning Hub and choose Early Years as your area of interest.
We have created a poster of the 5 Pillars, please find this to download and print for your setting here:

We invited feedback from practitioners who took part in our webinar series to help identify gaps in practice and guidance required. Examples of this are shown below and highlight that while there is a passion for rights in the Early Years Sector, guidance is still sought in how to implement this in the best way.

We filmed three different Early-Years settings, and interviewed their staff members to discover what a rights-based approach to Early Years looks and feels like in practice.

When you watch the three films from FossoPLAY, Cowgate Under 5's and Banchory Primary School's Nursery in Tullibody, which of the five pillars can you see at play?

We have developed a checklist mapping UNCRC articles along with GIRFEC and examples for corresponding evidence. You can download our checklist to print here:
https://www.childrensparliament.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Early-Years-Settings-Checklist-Childrens-Parliament-2022.pdf
Incorporation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) will bring multiple challenges as the country grasps this opportunity to make our society more inclusive and safer for all. One such challenge is that of baby and infant 'voice' and participation in decision making. Children's Parliament and NSPCC are keen to draw attention to this issue. As such, within our Year of Childhood programme, we hosted a conversation to consider these opportunities and challenges.

To kickstart this dialogue, we invited Professor Kay Tisdall of Edinburgh University, and Julia Donaldson of Glasgow's Infant and Family Team (GIFT) to share their reflections with us on the following question:

"What kind of changes, tools and practices are needed in the system to allow infants' voices to be meaningfully heard and understood in decision making, given the incorporation of UNCRC into Scots Law?"

The following videos capture the conversations that were first shared on Tuesday 29 th June, the tenth anniversary of the Christie Commission. The issue itself is too broad to resolve through these short videos, so we want to assure you that this discussion is an introduction to a larger conversation. We are planning a sector-wide, live-panel discussion, join the Unfearties and we'll keep you updated on this.

The full discussions between Carmel, Julia and Kay can be watched in the playlist below.

The snippets below are provided to highlight specific points in the discussions and to share with your networks.

Our speakers

Julia Donaldson has a background as a clinical psychologist and is currently the Clinical Director of GIFT. The Glasgow Infant and Family Team (GIFT) is a multidisciplinary infant mental health team. Julia and her team work with children aged between 0 and 5 years old who are in kinship care and foster care.

Kay Tisdall is a Professor of Childhood Policy at the University of Edinburgh. She is part of the childhood and youth studies research group and her own policy and academic interests are in children's human rights. She works collaboratively with children, young people and others on research projects addressing participation, in such fields as early childhood learning, domestic abuse and family law.

Carmel Faulkner is the Unfearties Project Lead at Children's Parliament. Her background is in education - specifically early years. Her experience includes leading nursery schools and children's centres. She has an MA in Early Childhood Studies and is currently undertaking her PhD with the Centre for Children's Rights at Queen's University Belfast. Her research seeks to understand the transformative potential of young children's perspectives on their human rights in early years settings located in Rwanda.

Webinars

Year of Childhood and Early Years: Where Are We Now?
30/11/2021
The focus of this discussion was to set the stage for further discussion of where the Early Years Sector currently is in relation to the implementation of the UNCRC.
We were delighted to be joined by Doreen Watson (The Care Inspectorate), Michele Doull (Early Years Scotland), Judith Walsh (Starcatchers) and Sophie Flemig (Cattanach).

The audience were asked to submit questions. See below for the speaker's responses to one that wasn't covered in the webinar time.

Question: How do we measure success, given what was said about smiles and the feel of a nursery?

Michelle Doull's Response:
Current practice within your provision supports observation, assessment, recording, and reflection of children's behaviour and relationships. Have confidence in the evidence you gather that captures the smiles, contentment, positive relationships, and upholding of rights, this is your measure of success. The principles of our Health and Social Care Standards underpin this and align with Realising the Ambition and Curriculum for Excellence. Staff and parent perspectives (where possible) will also support your evidence of success.

Doreen Watson's response:
How do we measure success? Success will look different depending upon where we are in our journey to recognising and promoting a rights-based approach. Small improvements will be important and there may be setbacks along the way. Ultimately, I think we measure success when we see children having fun, expressing themselves and benefitting from high quality care, play and learning experiences. Rights are not an add on, they are woven through every aspect of the ethos and provision of the service. Staff interactions with children are loving and caring and support children to understand their rights, not as an activity to be planned but as an everyday experience.
When we don't do, because we feel we must, because someone will evaluate our service poorly if we don't, but we do because we know it is the absolute responsibility of everyone working with and for children to approach their work with children's rights central to our approach. When we don't need to be reminded because it's a natural part of the language and actions in our society and rather it would seem strange not to work in this way.

Doreen's link to the Care Inspectorate's personal plans guidance:
https://hub.careinspectorate.com/media/4653/personal-plans-guide-elc-final-13102021.pdf

Michele kindly shared her slides with us, available here.

Starcatchers' links as mentioned by Rhona:
https://starcatchers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/CS-Resource-FINAL.pdf
https://starcatchers.org.uk/work/making-my-mark-2019/

Year of Childhood and Early Years: Children's Rights in Practice | 14/12/2021
The focus of this discussion established what a children's rights-based approach looks like and feels like in practice.
We were delighted to be joined by Sarah Laing (Innerwick ELC), Lynn McNair (Cowgate Under 5s) and Jane Brumpton (Early Years Scotland).

Sarah has very kindly made her slides available for you to download here.

If you'd like to see Lynn's presentation in more detail, it can be found here. Lynn has also been kind enough to share the link to her latest publication with us - the first 50 downloads are free!

Year of Childhood and Early Years: A Parents' Discussion | 18/01/2022
This discussion focuses on the support parents need in order to engage with and have knowledge of the UNCRC.
We were delighted to be joined by a panel of parents, including Angela Phillips (Early Years Scotland), Liliane Unutesi (parent), and Jane Malcolm (National Day Nurseries Association).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Rights-based practice in the Early Years - Children's Parliament

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
With support from the Cattanach Trust, the Year of Childhood specifically focused on the Early Years Sector, namely identifying and amplifying good practice in early years settings. highlighting impact for children, families and communities. By engaging parents/carers in conversations/webinars around the importance of embedding children's rights in their earliest years and identifying good practice internationally via a webinar [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
Using Scotland’s New Anti-Racism Literacy Resource

# data[].attributes.subject
Using Scotland’s New Anti-Racism Literacy Resource

# data[].attributes.body
Online event

Wednesday, May 20  •  4 PM - 5:30 PM

# data[].attributes.body
It's wonderful that the Evidence Plans are starting to come in now.

Just to make you aware that it is our Reading Schools policy to review and feedback to schools and settings within no more than 15 days from the date of submission. So please don't panic if you don't hear back straight away.

Please also remember to get in touch if you are going to need a bit more time (beyond 1st of June) to submit your Evidence Plan.

# data[].attributes.headline
National Literacy Trust - 2025 parental survey findings

# data[].attributes.subject
National Literacy Trust - 2025 parental survey findings

# data[].attributes.body
In 2025, the National Literacy Trust surveyed 3,002 parents and carers of children aged 5 and under from across the UK about everyday activities that support early learning and the barriers to more frequent shared engagement in these activities.

They found that:

7 in 10 parents (70.2%) chatted with their young child at least daily in the previous week (i.e. responding to the child’s words or gestures), down from 90.3% in 2019.

Half of parents (51.2%) played with their child daily, a drop of 25 percentage points since 2019 (76.2%).

Fewer than 1 in 2 parents (45.9%) read with their child daily, a drop of 20.2 percentage points since 2019 (66.1%).

Almost 3 in 10 parents (27.9%) painted, drew or made marks daily with their child, 11.2 percentage points lower than in 2019 (39.1%), but a 4.6 percentage point increase since 2024 (23.3%).

These findings also suggest that shared engagement in home learning activities is associated with parents’ confidence and understanding of how children’s language develops, as well as broader social and economic circumstances and access to local support.

The most commonly reported barrier was a lack of time due to work (44.8%), followed by the cost of activities (30.5%), limited availability of local activities (21.7%), cost of resources (17.6%) and a lack of additional support from family, friends and local services (17.5%).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
National Literacy Trust, National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parents’ support for young children’s literacy at home in 2025 | National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This report explores the findings of a survey conducted with 3,002 parents of children from birth to age five about engagement in home learning activities.

# data[].attributes.body
Please note that Bookbug Coordinators, Session Leaders, Bookbug for the Home practitioners and students get 50% all webinars and workshops.

We also offer a 20% multibuy discount when 3 or more sessions are bought at the same time. This is automatic and will discount at checkout.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Speech, language and communication: Supporting inclusion | Online Course

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Self-paced online course on speech, language and communication in early years. Learn to remove barriers, adapt practice, and support every child to participate.

# data[].attributes.headline
10 top tips for gifting the Bookbug Explorer Bag

# data[].attributes.subject
10 top tips for gifting the Bookbug Explorer Bag

# data[].attributes.body
Our Bookbug trainers offer some of their best advice for using and gifting the Bookbug Explorer Bag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 top tips for gifting the Bookbug Explorer Bag

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our Bookbug trainers offer some of their best advice for using and gifting the Bookbug Explorer Bag.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking for a giggle? Take a moment to watch our new videos from the Clown Doctors on our website. Also available on the Bookbug app.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You can find songs and rhymes to suit different moods or times of day. Try a range of songs and rhymes and discover your child’s favourites!

# data[].attributes.headline
Join in Bookbug's Book Quest - Free afternoons out with wee ones

# data[].attributes.subject
Join in Bookbug's Book Quest - Free afternoons out with wee ones

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Enjoy this video of A Good Place by Lucy Cousins being read aloud by our Early Years Trainer, Emma McKinnon. A Good Place is available in the Bookbug Explorer Bag 2026.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Bookbug Book of the Month: Seahorse is Furious by Morag Hood - Scottish Book Trust

We have five copies of Seahorse is Furious by Morag Hood to give away. Just answer the question below for your chance to win! Entries close at 11.59pm on 30 June and winners will be chosen at random.

By providing your email below, you are giving us permission to contact you to let you know the outcome of this competition. Only one entry per household is permitted. Full terms and conditions apply.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bookbug Book of the Month: Seahorse is Furious by Morag Hood

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.headline
Looking for some new or different songs and rhymes?

# data[].attributes.subject
Looking for some new or different songs and rhymes?

# data[].attributes.body
Look no further than... the Bookbug Song and Rhyme Library.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You can find songs and rhymes to suit different moods or times of day. Try a range of songs and rhymes and discover your child’s favourites!

# data[].attributes.headline
Multi-sensory songs and rhymes: hints and tips

# data[].attributes.subject
Multi-sensory songs and rhymes: hints and tips

# data[].attributes.body
Adding multi-sensory elements to songs and rhymes can make them even more engaging for children, particularly those with sensory impairments, learning difficulties or other additional needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Multi-sensory songs and rhymes: hints and tips

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.body
Wednesday 20th of May (2-3.30pm)

# data[].attributes.body
Get little ones ready to explore with Bookbug!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get little ones ready to explore with Bookbug!

# data[].attributes.headline
Read to the Beat! Summer Reading Challenge 2026

# data[].attributes.subject
Read to the Beat! Summer Reading Challenge 2026

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Read to the Beat! 2026 Summer Reading Challenge - The Reading Agency

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore the official Read to the Beat! book collection The 2026 Summer Reading Challenge book collection features 55 captivating titles…

# data[].attributes.headline
Which Quick Reads are right for me? Take the quiz!

# data[].attributes.subject
Which Quick Reads are right for me? Take the quiz!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Quick Reads are short books by bestselling authors. But with over 100 titles, we know there's a lot to choose from! Take this handy quiz to find out which of the Quick Reads might suit you.

Start Quiz

2026 Titles

Join our mailing list

Get our newsletters to stay up to date with programme news, resources, news and more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Need some ideas for your next read? Our Quick Reads quiz can help you find the right kind of book for you.

# data[].attributes.headline
Boost your evidence - Families and communities tip (1)

# data[].attributes.subject
Boost your evidence - Families and communities tip (1)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
RS ELC Padlet top tips- families and community

# data[].attributes.headline
Picture books to support Bookbug Week (17th -  24th May 2026)

# data[].attributes.subject
Picture books to support Bookbug Week (17th -  24th May 2026)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book List: Picture books to celebrate Bookbug’s Big Quest!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our theme for Bookbug Week 2026 is Bookbug’s Big Quest! Celebrate by cosying up with one of these fantastic adventure stories.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book List: Heart-warming books about friendship

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
No two friendships are the same. There are friends we laugh with, friends we call on in life’s worst moments; friends who challenge us to be better and friends who accept us just as we are. Whether

# data[].attributes.headline
Makaton Signed Nursery Rhymes and Songs (Monday 11th January 2027, 10-11.30am)

# data[].attributes.subject
Makaton Signed Nursery Rhymes and Songs (Monday 11th January 2027, 10-11.30am)

# data[].attributes.body
Online training from Early Years Music Scotland

# data[].attributes.body
Join in for Reading Hour between 7pm and 8pm tonight.

# data[].attributes.headline
Boost your evidence - Colleagues tip (1)

# data[].attributes.subject
Boost your evidence - Colleagues tip (1)

# data[].attributes.body
Just had a quick look and I can confirm that 30 out of our 41 settings have now started uploading comments, quotes, photos and videos to their Evidence Plans 🎊

This is really great progress! :) If anyone needs any support with getting started with this, please just let me know.