What are we reading in the Corner this March

My Dream for You written by Ash Barty and Jasmin McCaughey and illustrated by Jade Goodwin  

My dream for you begins earlier than dawn, 
in the magical days before you are born. 

Ash Barty’s latest and first picture book, My Dream for You (2024) is a gentle, heart-warming story about becoming a new mum and dreaming of holding your baby, talking and playing with them.  

But why wait until your baby is born?  

In the third trimester babies can hear and begin to feel soothed by the voices of the important people in their lives, particularly their mother.  

Experiences and environments in the early years have a lasting impact. The time from pregnancy until 5 years is the most rapid period of brain growth. What happens during this time provides the foundation for all future learning, behaviour and health.  The conversations you have with your unborn baby will lay the foundations for their development and wellbeing now, and for their whole life.  

The best part about First 5 Forever learning activities is that they can be experienced at home, particularly before your baby is born. Talk and sing to your baby, massage your tummy, respond to their kicks by gently nudging back and begin reading to them now. Your baby will love hearing your voice and all the different words they might not hear in everyday conversation.   

Why not start by reading My Dream for You which will prompt gentle sharing between mum and baby. 

For more information about how you can support your baby’s health and wellbeing through talking, reading, singing and playing, visit a First 5 Forever session either at your local library or State Library of Queensland. You’re never too young to be a member of your local library – you can join baby up from birth and borrow My Dream for You to enjoy together at home.  

Other books to read to your baby:

Miimi and Buwaarr, Mother and Baby written and illustrated by Melissa Greenwood (2024) 

Welcome to the World written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury (2022) 

Welcome Baby to this World written and illustrated by Jess Rackleft (2020)