HARLOW families can now borrow a Read and Count with Me book bag from Essex Country Parks and Essex libraries as part of the Essex Year of Numbers.

The book bags contain handpicked picture books to share with young learners from birth to age seven in the great outdoors. They aim to encourage literary, numeracy and a love of nature from an early age. Titles include Mad About Minibeasts by Giles Andreae and a selection of other outdoor themed stories.

The bags also contain a ground sheet to sit on and lots of activity ideas to try including seasonal spotters’ guides to encourage early numeracy skills.

The bags can be borrowed free of charge from Essex Country Parks and from Essex libraries to use in any local green space.

Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, Councillor Tony Ball said: “We are really pleased to launch these book bags as part of the Essex Year of Numbers. They are an ideal way to discover the joy of reading, numbers and learning while enjoying the great outdoors.

“Early numeracy and literacy practice helps build confidence and develop the skills that can lead to success in later life. We’re committed to providing all young people with the opportunities, tools and support to help them thrive.

“We will be launching many more events and initiatives in the coming weeks and months. Please keep an eye on the Essex Year of Numbers website for latest updates.”

For the seven Essex Country Parks head to the café or Ranger’s Office and ask to borrow one of the sets. Bags can be borrowed at Belhus Woods, Cudmore Grove, Danbury, Great Notley, Hadleigh, Thorndon and Weald.

To borrow a bag from the library to use in a local green space, check if your local library has one, or reserve one to be sent to a library of your choice.

The book bags are also available during Wild Wednesdays and Forest School sessions at Danbury Country Park.

The bags are provided by Essex Library Service and Essex Country Parks and are part of the Essex Year of Numbers. This is a countywide campaign that aims to inspire a love of learning, with a focus on numeracy.

The £1.5 million campaign aims to challenge people’s perceptions about maths. It is a year of exciting learning opportunities, fun events and initiatives for all.

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