SPORTING superstar Ash Barty visited Ipswich Children’s Library last Thursday to celebrate World Children’s Day with local families.
The First 5 Forever Ambassador brought her star power to Australia’s only dedicated children’s library to promote State Library of Queensland’s successful play-based learning initiative.
“I love nothing more than being a mum and playing with my two little ones Hayden and Jordan,” Barty said.
“As First 5 Forever Ambassador, I understand the importance of play in creating happy, healthy families.
“It is wonderful to be in my local community to promote the importance of talking, reading, singing and playing with children in everyday places.”
In her role as First 5 Forever Ambassador, Barty is the influential face of a series of resources and monthly tips that help families lay strong foundations for their children in the first five years.
Launched in 2015, First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by the State Library and delivered in partnership with local government, through 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres across Queensland.
State Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said World Children’s Day was about making sure our youngest Queenslanders have the happy and healthy childhood they deserve.
“We know creative play is central to every young child’s development and wellbeing, and that’s why the State Government is proud to deliver $5 million for First 5 Forever,” Mr Langbroek said.
“It’s wonderful to have our homegrown sports star, Ash Barty as ambassador to help raise awareness of the importance of reading, singing and play for our children in their earliest years.”
