Bookstart Around the World 1
Bookstart Around the World 3.8.2 Target groups In
each country, all of the programmes have specific models for how Bookstart should be designed – though there is scope for local adjustments to be made according to the target groups, available resources or other circumstances. The bookgifting programmes that have been highlighted in this overview are primarily focused on general interventions/providing free books to as many children and their families as possible. However, the underlying intention seems to most often be to attempt to reach certain target groups where children are at greater risk of falling behind in their language development, such as groups that are socioeconomically disadvantaged. For this reason, some special programmes have been initiated to help these groups. These can involve additional outreach, as is the case with Bookstart Corner in the UK. Within Reach Out and Read, some clinics focus on adapting the regular programme’s content to certain target groups, and collaborating with local associations or groups. In Germany, there is a special programme for families who are asylum seekers, and the programme in general targets regions where the need is greater. A relevant question for many programmes within the EURead network is how to most effectively reach the groups where the need for interventions is greatest. According to the interviews, it seems that several programmes are working to reach out more to certain target groups through additional targeted efforts. The professions involved in book giveaways are usually employees at child healthcare centres or libraries. In some programmes, volunteers are used, but their presence and role also varies locally within these programmes. These volunteers can be assigned to work together with families, such as in waiting rooms at child healthcare centres. 22/52