National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, family daycares, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.

Now in its 23rd successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6.

All our Early Learning Centres participated in National Simultaneous Storytime by reading out loud "Bowerbird Blues" by Aura Parker. Some of our centres visited their local library whilst others enjoyed reading the book in their centre gardens.

By facilitating NSS we aim to:

promote the value of reading and literacy,

promote the value and fun of books,

promote an Australian writer and publisher,

promote storytime activities in libraries and communities around the country,

and provide opportunities to involve parents, grandparents, the media and others to participate in and enjoy the occasion.

Our children loved this story! They were very engaged and connected the story to their own experiences. The book stars a beautiful bowerbird in the search for blue! It's a moving story of longing and connection, unfolding as the bowerbird's search sends him flying across the sea, sky, and city.

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