FREE EVENT | FREE PARKING ON SITE

Join us for an afternoon celebrating books, babies and the joy of reading together!

Reading to your baby is one of the simplest and most meaningful things you can do together.

Long before children can read for themselves, they are learning through the sound of your voice, the rhythm of language, shared attention and cuddles. These everyday moments help build connection, support early brain development, encourage language and lay the foundations for a lifelong love of learning.

Join Canberra Women & Babies for a relaxed afternoon exploring the joy of reading together with your baby or young child.

We're delighted to be joined by three wonderful guests who are passionate about supporting children and families:

Jacinta Froud – Canberra children's author of the award-shortlisted What Noise Does the Baby Make? Jacinta will share why reading from the earliest months matters, offer a glimpse into writing picture books, and reveal some of the wonderful techniques authors use to capture young children's imaginations.

Belinda Reitstatter – Director of Junior School (Learning and Innovation) at Canberra Girls Grammar School. Belinda will share the evidence behind early literacy and practical, everyday ways families can foster language, curiosity and a love of books from the very beginning.

The Book Cow – Canberra's much-loved children's bookshop has curated a beautiful selection of books for babies and young children, including signed copies of Jacinta's books available for purchase on the day.

As a special gift, every baby attending will receive a '10% off' voucher from The Book Cow, helping start (or grow!) their own little library.

Following the presentations, stay and enjoy afternoon tea overlooking the beautiful Yhuuramulum lakeside setting while connecting with other young families.

Whether you're already reading every night or wondering where to begin, we hope you'll leave feeling inspired, confident and excited to make books part of your family's everyday routine.

This is a complimentary Canberra Women & Babies community event.

Priority bookings are available exclusively to Canberra Women & Babies families before registrations open to the wider community. Places are limited and bookings are essential.

Please aim to arrive at 1:45 pm for a 2:00 pm start time. We can't wait to see you there!

Session time

2:00pm-4:00pm