Camden Council was proud to bring more than 100 delegates together in Camden for the 10th National Paint the Town REaD Conference, strengthening collaboration and sharing ideas to improve early literacy outcomes for children across Australia.
The two-day conference, held at Camden Civic Centre on Thursday 17 and Friday 18 September, brought together researchers, literacy experts, community leaders and practitioners both, online and in person, to share innovative approaches to early literacy and child development.
The conference focused on the importance of everyday reading, talking, singing and rhyming in building strong foundations for lifelong learning, with a shared vision of ensuring every child has access to literacy-rich and learning-rich environments to help them grow and thrive.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Vince Ferreri, said Council was a proud and long-standing supporter of the Paint the Town REaD initiative.
"We really believe in the Paint the Town REaD initiative and everything it stands for," he said.
"Our library services, early years programs and community partnerships reflect these ideals, including our regular Storytime and Rhyme Time sessions at Camden Libraries, early literacy activities for families and collaboration with local early childhood services to promote reading from birth.
"The number of young families calling the Camden area home continues to grow, so it's important we continue to invest in our children's future and give them the best possible foundations to learn, grow and thrive."
Attendees of the conference praised the breadth of keynote speakers and workshop topics, with discussions supporting the translation of research and data into innovative, locally relevant initiatives. The conference also created opportunities for local service providers to build new partnerships and explore opportunities for future collaboration to support children and families.
Paint the Town REaD is a nationally recognised early literacy initiative that focuses on building strong foundations for lifelong learning by encouraging families and communities to engage with children from birth.
For more information about Paint the Town REaD, visit paintthetownread.info
