Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch today announced that the State Library of Queensland will present a fun program of daily online activities for children, including a targeted program for children aged 0 to 5.
"The online program, which will be posted on Facebook each weekday at 10.00am, is designed to inspire children to engage in talking, reading, singing and learning from the comfort of their own homes," Ms Enoch said.
"Inspiring a love of reading is such an important part of early years development and through the State Library's online resources we want Queensland kids to imagine great adventures!
Every Thursday of the school term, the State Library of Queensland will also present Jarjum Stories Live!, a free interactive live-streamed session involving First Nations children's storybooks guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and performers.
"Jarjum Stories Live! will include a book reading combined with fun creative activities connected to the storyline, such as dance, painting and performance.
"The State Library of Queensland has also introduced a new online initiative, the Reading Adventure Club, for children up to 12 years old, with a video posted on Facebook every Tuesday," Ms Enoch said.
The Reading Adventure Club, which includes a weekly activity-based video challenge, encourages children to discuss books with their families and broaden their reading interests.
Minister Enoch said that during these challenging times, it was great to see the State Library providing extra resources to enhance children's literacy with plenty of fun, as part of First 5 Forever.
"The Palaszczuk Government invests $5 million annually in the First 5 Forever program, which is delivered by the State Library of Queensland and provides strong early literacy foundations for children aged 0 to 5 years," Ms Enoch said.
"The First 5 Forever activities, including the popular Storytime, Rhymetime and Babytime usually held in The Corner at the State Library, will continue to be presented online," Ms Enoch said.
State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald said reading and storytelling provided the perfect bonding opportunity for children, parents and caregivers.
"In unsettling times, there is nothing more comforting than a good book and enjoying quality family time.
"These online programs will provide structure and inspiration for parents and their children."
