Expectant mums and new parents have been invited to take part in Darlington Libraries first Bump and Baby Fair this month (March).
Free taster sessions will be on offer to try out a host of local activities for young children, from baby yoga to music and baby signing and there will be the chance to win one of two special gift hampers, kindly donated by Morrisons.
Staff from Boots No7 counter will also be on hand to give mini makeover lessons and tips for busy mums.
The free, drop-in event has been organised as part of the celebrations for National Bath, Book, Bed Month and will be held on Wednesday 7 March in the run up to Mother’s Day (Sunday 11 March).
Between 10am and 2pm, new parents will also have the chance to ask advice and talk to different organisations including health services, children’s centres and family learning advisers.
The event is open to any expectant mums and for families with babies aged up to six months of age. No need to book, just come along on the day and receive a free goody pack too!
Suzy Hill, Bookstart and Library Literacy Coordinator, who is organising the event said:
“Welcoming a new addition to the family is a wonderful thing but it can also be a challenge, particularly for first-time parents.
“Our Bump and Baby Fair aims to bring together people together to share their experiences and offer the chance to ask advice in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. There’ll also be the chance to try out some fun activities they can share with their babies.
“And, of course, we’ll be highlighting the importance of a regular bedtime routine as promoted by the Bath, Book, Bed campaign run by Booktrust, whose research has shown how new parents often miss out on hundreds of hours of sleep during a child’s first few years.
“We’ll be showing them how there’s nothing better than snuggling up and sharing a soothing bedtime story to send the little ones off to the land of nod.”
For more information about library services and events log onto the website at Darlington Libraries, visit the Facebook page, Bookstart in Darlington, pop into one of the libraries or call 01325 349610. Details of other events can be found on the website at www.darlington.gov.uk/darlingtonevents
National Bath, Book, Bed Month is organised by Booktrust, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. By promoting simple steps to a better night’s sleep, the Bath, Book, Bed campaign aims to help everyone settle into a regular bedtime routine. To find out more visit www.booktrust.org.uk