All children in the City of Bayswater will be able to experience the joy of storytime when the City hosts a very special reading of popular children’s book We're Going on a Bear Hunt this International Day of People with Disability.
Braille reader Richard Brider will stand alongside an AUSLAN interpreter to perform a unique reading of popular children’s book We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen. The book’s pages will also be made available on screen with accessible captions. Children can also explore the themes of the book by visiting sensory stations set up around the room.
The event will be held at the Civic Centre from 10.30am to 12pm on Friday 2 December.
Mayor Filomena Piffaretti said she was delighted the City will host an inclusive event for International Day of People with Disability that kids could enjoy.
“Children are unique and often have special needs that make participating in everyday activities challenging,” she said.
“I am so proud the City has been able to arrange a very special storytime so that all children are given the opportunity to engage in early literacy and connect with their parent or carer.
“We recognise children can have different learning styles, so allowing them to touch and feel their way through the story will help facilitate a deeper understanding of the book.”
In line with this year’s theme of ‘Not all disabilities are visible’, teepees will be set up around the room with soft cushions and interactive toys to provide quiet places for children to desensitise if needed.
Following storytime, families will be treated to tunes on the piano, with an AUSLAN interpreter teaching basic sign language for children to sing-and-sign along to ‘I Can Sing a Rainbow’.
The City recently developed a Sensory Storytime program at its Morley Library to cater for children with challenges related to sensory experiences. The program provides children with engaging activities to help them develop their social play and literacy skills in a group setting.
A morning tea will be provided at this free event, so those interested in attending are encouraged to register by 5pm, Wednesday 30 November.
For more information or to register, visit bit.ly/sensory-storytime
If you have any questions, need help registering or would like to provide dietary requirements, call the City’s Community Development team on 9272 0658 or email inclusion@bayswater.wa.gov.au.
As part of our Access and Inclusion Plan 2020–2024, the City is committed to creating a welcoming, accessible and inclusive community for people of all abilities.
Pictured: Mayor Filomena Piffaretti with Richard Brider and resident Jasmine with her daughters Olivia and Aria.