A Western Sydney Aboriginal
Early Literacy Project for Families

Our bubs are never too young for books. Keeping books back from bubs is like keeping bubs back from the mob. Dr Penelope Leach, adapted by Maureen Silleri.

What is the Early Literacy issue?

Many children starting school are not ready to learn to read and write.

The myth is that children learn all the skills they need to learn to read and write, once they begin school.

Research shows that if children are not ready in the years before school, then learning in school may be a struggle.

In fact, literacy begins at birth.

How can Early Words Help?

The Early Words project helps families build the basic skills that children need for reading and writing, right from birth.

Early Words Aboriginal Resources are free* and were developed in partnership with our Western Sydney Aboriginal community.

Resources will be available for families from:

  • Hospitals
  • Aboriginal Medical Service
  • GPs
  • Community Health Nurses
  • Aboriginal community groups
  • Playgroups
  • Child Care Centres

The Resources target early literacy development at these stages:

  • Pregnancy (Antenatal clinic appointment)
  • Baby’s birth (in hospital)
  • 2 months
  • 6 months
  • 12 months
  • 18 months
  • 3 years
  • 4 years

You can download some of the resources, including tip sheets, from the Resources page on this website.

Click here to to find out more about Early Words in Western Sydney.

On the main Early Words website you can find out what other Early Words resources are available, further ideas, local and international resources.

Take a look at some practical ideas we have put together for you and the children you care for. And if you would like to know how to choose the best books for any particular age, click here.

*Early words is a free service for the local government areas of Auburn, Holroyd, Parramatta, Blacktown and Baulkham Hills.