- State Library of Western Australia's early literacy program celebrates 20 years of building a love of reading
- Free reading packs and literacy activities for ages 0 to 5 support brain development in early years
- New look for program and Baby Waysboard book for next generation of WA children
- Cook Government investing in education and early childhood development
Australia's longest-running early literacy program, Better Beginnings, has marked its 20th anniversary with new-look program resources and a newly published version of the iconic Baby Ways book.
Delivered by the State Library of Western Australia since 2005, Better Beginnings resources reach every family with young children in WA.
The program provides free reading packs and literacy information that support parents and carers in their critical role as their child's first and most important teacher.
Better Beginnings is delivered in the community in partnership with local government and the Department of Health.
From 2026, the blue Baby Book Box and red Preschool Book Box will be available through public libraries, child health nurses and other delivery partners.
The new packs contain more books and simplified information, with the baby box delivered at the eight-week child health appointment. The toddler and kindergarten packs have been merged into one Preschool Book Box for two to five-year-olds.
The Baby Waysboard book - beloved by babies - has been updated with a new cohort of talent and will be available in the new reading packs.
With the support of longstanding major partner, Rio Tinto, Better Beginnings has innovated and trialled initiatives like the Little Fulla Yarns Reading Pack for Aboriginal families, the Baby Days wordless book and targeted initiatives in regional communities.
The Cook Government has delivered $1 million in Better Beginnings grants to public libraries and community organisations over the last five years to support grass roots early literacy activities.
As stated by Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk:
"Better Beginnings has grown to reach every Western Australian family with young children across the State by gifting free reading packs in the early years and supporting library programs like rhyme time and story time.
"We know there is a strong connection between reading and wellbeing, and this is one of the ways we ensure that every family has access to books in their home."
As stated by Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton:
"By highlighting the importance of early literacy skills from day one, we equip children with greater potential to grow and learn and succeed in life.
"Better Beginnings are built book by book, and I'm excited to see the new edition of Baby Waysand program enhancements roll out in 2026."
