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This article was published on Friday, 28 July, 2023. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Council promotes free resources to boost children's language development

The Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) recognises language and cognitive skills as a key domain in a child's developmental journey. Council’s initiative for the next six weeks will prioritise this domain, delivering free tools and resources to empower parents and carers to nurture their children in this area.

Driven by Council's Best Start Program, the initiative will link parents and carers to a variety of free resources they can use to foster language and cognitive skills in their children.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said Council wanted to make people aware that improving a child's language development did not have to be expensive or complicated.

"Every child in Greater Shepparton deserves to have their voice heard, nurtured, and developed, and with our free resources and through engaging in everyday activities, parents and carers can make a significant positive impact,” he said.

"Parents and caregivers play such a key role in the early stages of a child's life. We're here to support their efforts and help all children grow their language skills, regardless of their cultural background."

The resources provided by Council have been designed to cater to a multitude of activities and programs, such as Rhyme and Story Time at local libraries, the Best Start Book Bag program, and a host of online content centred on early language development. The initiative, which began in 2021, also includes newer features such as Book Tubs and Book Swap Boxes at local GP clinics and playgroups, to keep children engaged in reading and storytelling adventures.

To find out more about the resources available to support your child's language development, visit the Greater Shepparton City Council website.