“Children who are read to every night start school a year ahead of those who are not and the gap only widens as they get older. Quite simply, children who read for pleasure are happier, healthier and do better in life than those who don't.” said Diana Gerald, Chief Executive of BookTrust.

As well as inspiring imaginations, opening up minds and building creativity, National Bookstart Week (6th-12th June) encourages all families to get into the habit of sharing stories, books and rhymes every day at bedtime and believes it has a positive impact on getting children ready for school.

“Making time to read with your children is so important because shared reading leads to a love of reading. And we know that reading for pleasure has a dramatic impact on life outcomes – and this is as much about confidence and well-being as it is about educational achievements.” continued Diana Gerald.

To celebrate, Bookstart and Barefoot books will be giving away special-edition copies of Jessica Law’s A Hole in the Bottom of the Sea. Families will have no excuse not get enjoy a good book and can pick up their free copy at any of the free events taking place all week.

Full details of all the activities are available in local libraries.

Bookstart gives every child in England and Wales a free reading pack in the first year of their life and again when they are 3-4 years old.