More than 250 people gathered to celebrate the Words Grow Minds campaign across two Mount Gambier events held recently at AF Sutton and Melaleuca reserves.

The free events tailored especially for children under five were organised by Mount Gambier Library and provided families with opportunities to explore activities focused on the state-wide campaign’s calls to action: talk, play, read, and sing, supporting early literacy development in South Australia.

“At both events children and their families enjoyed a variety of engaging activities that encouraged curiosity and learning through play,” Mount Gambier Library Team Leader Children and Youth Services Erin Jones said.

“Our aim is to remind families that those small everyday interactions – talking, playing, reading and singing – have a significant impact on children’s development.”

Mrs Jones said attendees were also able to connect with and learn more about local services available within 
the community.

Representatives from various organisations were on hand to offer information and resources, helping families understand how they can continue to support their children’s growth at home and within their communities.

A free barbecue was also supplied, cooked by Mount Gambier Lakes Rotary Club and hot drinks from the Mount Gambier Baptist Church Solid Rock Café Trailer.

“We are thankful to these local services and organisations for supporting these events and helping us to spread the importance of literacy within our community,” Library and Community Development manager Georgina Davison said.

“More information on the campaign can be accessed through the Words Grow Minds website or pop into the library for a chat with one of our Children and Youth Services team.”