First 5 Forever

Ash Barty reading a book to a young girl outside at State Library of Queensland

Introducing Ash Barty

First 5 Forever ambassador

Talk, Read, Sing, Play

While brain development continues through life, from birth to 5 years is the most rapid period of growth for a child’s brain with over a million new connections forming every second. The everyday moments you spend with your child, talking, reading, singing and playing can help build a healthy brain and a healthy body, now and for their future.

Featured articles

Child learning with two women through reading a book.

Why are the first five years so important?

In their first years of life your child's brain forms over 1 million new connections every second.

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An ambassador for First 5 Forever – Ash Barty!

For the first time since launching First 5 Forever has welcomed an ambassador to help raise awareness of the program; three-time Grand Slam singles champion, winner of the 2022 Australian Open, proud Ngarigo woman, author and new mother, Ash Barty!

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Online Story Time, Rhyme Time and Baby Play sessions

Watch all your favourite First 5 Forever sessions online, anywhere and any time.

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Free sessions at your local library

Join a free First 5 Forever session at your local library and get ideas to try at home, meet other parents and carers and access fun activities for your child. You can also borrow books to share when you get home. For session times near you, check your local library’s website.

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