Collect a free book by completing Fraser Coast Playtime Passport

Exploring the region and Fraser Coast Libraries’ services with the new Playtime Passport can score young families stickers, a free book and a host of special memories.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the free passport was designed to encourage families with children up to the age of five to talk, read, sing and play around the region’s fantastic beaches, parks, gardens, galleries, attractions and library branches.

“Our new playtime passport provides plenty of terrific ideas for igniting children’s curiosity by giving them opportunities to explore which helps to build strong connections in their brains,” he said.

“Boosting the brain development of children in the first five years builds strong neural connections which play a key role in learning and behaviour throughout life.

“Library staff will hand out a sticker for each play activity completed and when all 24 activities are done, families can head to their nearest library branch to collect a beautiful book.”

Cr Seymour said playing was not only fun, it also helped youngsters learn to use words, solve their own problems, be creative and practise new skills.

“Playing outdoors can help to build big and little muscles which are important in helping children sit still and concentrate when they start school,” he said.

“Spending time interacting with your children in their early years creates wonderful memories and builds a strong foundation for a lifetime of growth and development.”

Cr Seymour said the Fraser Coast Playtime Passport was produced by Fraser Coast Libraries with the support of First 5 Forever.

He said a limited number of the passports had been printed and would be handed out by library staff to families with children under five.

“It will also be available as an online flipbook with an activity sheet that parents and guardians can print, allowing the stickers to be collected and the book to be claimed once all of the activities are completed,” Cr Seymour said.

The flipbook and activity sheet is available at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/first-5-forever

First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government.