Welcome to Itabashi: A City Revamping Its Book Start Program for Young Families

Itabashi, known as the city of picture books, is taking significant steps to support young families through its renewed Book Start program. Targeting families with children up to the age of two, the city is excited to announce a revamped initiative starting in April 2024. Previously aimed at families with children under one year old, the program now extends its reach to include parents of younger toddlers, ensuring that more families can engage with the joy of reading together.

As part of this new initiative, each family who visits the library will receive a specially curated gift bag. This thoughtful package will include two picture books, a unique Itabashi tote bag, and an advice booklet designed to enhance shared reading experiences between parents and their children. Additionally, one of the books included will be a winner from the coveted Itabashi International Picture Book Translation Award, adding a touch of cultural significance to the reading experience.

Understanding the Book Start Program

The Book Start concept originated in 1992 in Birmingham, England, aiming to foster both child-rearing support and promote reading. During infant health check-ups, free Book Start packs containing baby-oriented picture books, reading guides, placemats, and local parenting service information were distributed to families.

A follow-up survey conducted by the University of Birmingham has shown notable advantages for families who participated in the program. These families exhibited a closer bond with books, leading to an increased awareness surrounding reading and an extension of quality parent-child reading time. The program has also been linked to enhanced cognitive abilities and curiosity in children, positive changes in parent-child relationships, and an overall improved home environment through the joy of reading.

Details of the Itabashi Book Start Initiative

The Book Start program is designed for families with children from pregnancy up until their second birthday. The gifts provided include:
1. Itabashi Original Tote Bag: A sturdy bag featuring the city’s logo, perfect for carrying books and other necessities.
2. Advice Booklet: A new booklet created to visually communicate the joy and importance of spending time reading with children.
3. Picture Books: Families will receive a set of two books, including one awarded in the Itabashi International Picture Book Translation Award, which honors translations published in English and Italian. Notably, the centrally located library allows families to select their favorite picture book from a list.

The Itabashi International Picture Book Translation Award further nurtures a love for literature by celebrating the art of translation and making diverse stories accessible to young readers.

Remarks from Program Coordinators

The program coordinators emphasize the importance of a nurturing environment where children feel the warmth and comfort of being held while hearing gentle words from adults. This valuable time contributes significantly to a child's development and creates a soothing experience for adults as well. The initiative aspires to connect as many children as possible with books from an early age, fostering stronger bonds between parents and their children through shared literary experiences.

For more information, please contact the Bologna Picture Book Division at the Itabashi Central Library via phone at 03-6281-0560.

Please note that the information provided reflects the details available at the time of the press release and may differ from current program specifics.