23 March 2026
Storybook and play sessions that have transformed children's relationship with books in South Reading need public support to continue over the coming months.
The free weekly sessions, for families with children aged 0-4 in the Whitley Wood and Hexham Road areas of Reading, have been run by researchers from the Institute of Education at the University of Reading since November 2023 and have helped hundreds of local children discover the joy of reading.
As children across the country celebrate the National Year of Reading, the team behind the sessions is launching a crowdfunding appeal to support the sessions over the summer, while longer-term funding proposals are considered.
Professor Holly Joseph, who co-founded the scheme working closely with local parents and community researchers, said: "The difference these sessions have made to families in the community has been remarkable, and we are so grateful to everyone who has supported them. We would love to keep that momentum going through the summer.
"Early exposure to books helps children's language skills when they start school, which in turn relates to later academic outcomes. The sessions are also great for school readiness, getting children used to sitting down to listen to stories, enjoying snack time and feeling confident playing independently and with their peers.
"Parents have told us about the huge differences they have seen in their children since coming to the sessions, from more reading at home to less time scrolling on their phones and even better mental health. We know that children's reading habits are influenced by their families, so it is crucial to involve the whole family."
Free books to take home
Each session involves a short children's storybook being read twice, once at the start and once at the end, giving both parents and children the chance to become familiar with it before taking a free copy home. Research shows that families who take books home are more likely to read together again, helping both child and parent grow in confidence and enthusiasm.
One parent said: "It's really opened my son's world to understanding that books are fun", while another added: "Before the sessions, he just wasn't that bothered with books, but now he definitely is."
The team previously ran a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2024 which allowed the Whitley Wood group to continue for an extra year. They are now asking the community to help again. Learn more and support the sessions: Ready to Read - support our work.
The University of Reading sessions complement the Whitley Library, South Reading Community Hub offer, where each week, families enjoy free storytelling, interactive floor activities, singing and craft sessions designed to inspire a love of reading and imagination from an early age. Alongside a packed calendar of school‑holiday events ensuring children of all ages experience fun, learning and discovery throughout the year.
Notes to editors:
Contact the Whitley Wood Playgroup team via Rinna Puno-Levett (r.puno-levett@reading.ac.uk), Daisy Powell (d.a.powell@reading.ac.uk) or Holly Joseph (h.joseph@reading.ac.uk).
For interviews, contact the University of Reading Press Office on 0118 378 5757 or pressoffice@reading.ac.uk
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