Local collaboration aims to boost early childhood literacy in Newman

The Y WA’s Newman Early Learning Centre has partnered with the Shire of East Pilbara’s Newman Library through a new early literacy initiative aimed at giving local children the strongest possible start in life.

Under the partnership, kindy children from the Early Learning Centre visit the Shire of East Pilbara’s Newman Library each month for interactive literacy sessions. On alternating months, the library team delivers programming directly at the centre, engaging both toddler and kindy groups in storytelling and early learning activities.

Shire President Cr Anthony Middleton said the partnership reflects the Shire’s commitment to giving local children the strongest possible start in life.

“Getting kids comfortable with books early on makes a real difference. These sessions are all about building confidence, curiosity and that spark for learning,” Cr Middleton said.

“We also want families to feel welcome at the Shire of East Pilbara’s Newman Library — to pop in regularly, borrow books and make reading part of everyday life at home.”

This partnership brings together the Shire’s Library services and The Y WA’s early learning expertise to expand access to literacy opportunities for young children in Newman.

The sessions are designed to be vibrant and hands-on, featuring story time, puppetry, songs, arts and crafts, sensory play and interactive activities. Each visit includes a range of library materials and resources to create an engaging learning environment for young children.

Tammy Bakewell, Director of the Y WA’s Newman Early Learning Centre, said the children’s enthusiasm for the program had been overwhelming.

“The children absolutely love it. When the library team visits us, it feels like a special event, and walking to the library creates a real sense of adventure,” Ms Bakewell said.

“The demand has been so strong that we now alternate days each month so every child gets a chance to be involved.”

The Newman Early Learning Centre is part of The Y WA’s School ReadY Program, which supports children across 14 Early Learning Centres by strengthening skills in oral language, early literacy, early numeracy and social-emotional wellbeing.

Renee Chakaodza, The Y WA’s Literacy Specialist, said the partnership enhances the School ReadY program’s objectives. 

“This collaboration strengthens the literacy and language focus of our School ReadY program beautifully. It extends what our educators are already doing in the centre and helps reinforce the outcomes we’re committed to achieving for every child.”

The Shire and The Y WA hope the partnership will continue to strengthen early learning outcomes while encouraging greater family engagement with reading across the community.