Sharing books and bears to get children reading – BookTrust and Build-A-Bear Foundation
Published on: 28 November 2023
Working with a number of BookTrust's partners across the country, Build-A-Bear Foundation has generously donated funds and over 800 reading buddy bears to nurseries and children's centres to help get children reading.
The internationally renowned Build-A-Bear Foundation is proudly supporting the UK's largest children's reading charity – a reflection of their shared commitment to encouraging a love of sharing stories and reading in young children and families, particularly those from disadvantaged or vulnerable backgrounds.
Research shows that taking part in shared activities like reading and storytelling during a child's early years provides the biggest boost for their development, enhancing cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. These positive effects extend beyond childhood and children from disadvantaged backgrounds stand to benefit even more from the short and longer-term benefits.
This understanding of the long-lasting impact of early shared reading is central to BookTrust's work and Build-A-Bear Foundation's core focus.
Known for forming meaningful connections with organisations globally, Build-A-Bear Foundation have chosen BookTrust to be their UK literacy partner, as they believe that every child, regardless of background, deserves the joy of reading and a cuddly companion that provides a sense of security and connection during shared reading experiences.
See children with their Build-A-Bear Foundation bears
A woman and a child with a Build-a-Bear Foundation bear and a Bookstart pack
A woman and a child with a Build-a-Bear Foundation bear
A child hugging two Build-a-Bear Foundation bears
A parent, child and Build-A-Bear Foundation bear
A group of children with their Build-A-Bear Foundation bears
A child with their Build-A-Bear Foundation bear
Two children, each hugging a Build-A-Bear Foundation bear
A child holding up her Build-A-Bear Foundation bear
A photo of a selection of Build-A-Bear Foundation bears
A child smiling with their Build-A-Bear Foundation bear, which is wearing a paper hat
Emma, a nursery teacher and Early Years Lead from Ashton under Lyne said: "The wonderful resources that BookTrust provide to our Nursery children are fantastic at encouraging children to develop a love of learning through books, parents are supported through suggested engaging activities that they can share at home with their child and the additional surprise of the Build-a-Bears this year has made lots of little children (and staff) very happy indeed.
"We are looking forward to hearing the children telling us all about snuggling down at home with their family whilst they share a book with their new bears!"
Claire Goodall, Director of Design, Development and Strategic Planning at BookTrust added: "BookTrust is incredibly grateful for the generous support from the Build-A-Bear Foundation. This brilliant collaboration not only helps us to further nurture a love of reading, but also provides comfort and excitement through the gift of bears, enhancing the magic of shared reading and creating special moments for families.
"Together, we're making a lasting impact on the families we work with and helping children from all backgrounds experience the transformative power of shared reading.
"We're excited about the continued partnership with Build-A-Bear Foundation and look forward to creating more moments of connection and reading enjoyment for children."
Topics: News
