Families across West Sussex preparing their children for their first day at school next September can now get a helping hand, thanks to free Gruffalo-themed activity packs available at libraries across the county.
West Sussex County Council has launched its 'Starting School with West Sussex Libraries' initiative, offering parents and carers practical resources to help children build confidence and develop important skills ahead of starting school in 2027.
The packs are available to borrow free of charge from all 36 libraries across West Sussex, giving families an opportunity to prepare for the transition to primary education in a fun and relaxed way.
There are two different Gruffalo-themed bookbags to choose from, each containing a selection of books to share with children, a game and a leaflet offering practical advice.
The packs focus on key milestones, including potty training and helping children feel comfortable and confident about starting school.
Families can also use their library cards to borrow additional books covering these subjects and a wide range of other early learning topics, all free of charge.
Alongside the new packs, West Sussex Libraries offer regular activities for young children and their families, including free weekly Rhyme Time and Storytime sessions.
The initiative forms part of West Sussex County Council's wider commitment to improving children's health and development.
Helping children prepare for school is one of five priorities identified in the West Sussex Health and Wellbeing Board's Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy for 2025 to 2030.
The council's Public Health team has funded the new packs to support families during this important stage of childhood.
Councillor Ian Davey, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "Starting school is an important step for children and their families. These free packs give parents and carers practical ideas to use at home, alongside books and activities they can enjoy together to support their child's development and get ready for the transition to school."
Councillor Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, welcomed the initiative.
She said: "These packs are a great way for families to build their child's confidence and skills in a relaxed and enjoyable way. Libraries already offer a wide range of books and toys to borrow, as well as free activities, and these new library packs are a welcome addition."
The council hopes the packs will encourage more families to make use of their local libraries, providing children with opportunities to discover books, enjoy stories and develop early learning skills before entering the classroom.
Parents and carers can borrow the Gruffalo-themed starter packs from any participating West Sussex library.
To find your nearest library and discover more about the free activities available, visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/find-my-nearest/library/.
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