Research

The rapid expansion of Bookstart since its origins in Birmingham has seen the programme establish itself as a major presence in the early years landscape.
 
Bookstart’s success has attracted considerable academic interest which has produced a wealth of information on its impact and outcomes. As a policy initiative, the importance of Bookstart stems from its impact on a wide range of issues prominent on the policy agenda.
 
The Research reviews and Research updates in this section aim to provide insight into the relevance of the programme to wider policy concerns and also shed light on early years research that illuminates Bookstart’s wider importance.
 

Bookstart outcomes

A concise account of the impact of Bookstart on book use, reading and literacy including mention of relevance to 'Every Child Matters' outcomes.
Read Bookstart outcomes here
 
Bookstart Impact Evaluations

Longitudinal studies of the impact of the programme on reading habits, attitudes towards reading with young children and reading-related activities among families who have received the packs.
Read the Bookstart Impact Evaluations here
 
Bookstart studies

A list of regional and national studies on Bookstart projects, examining their impact on child development and early literacy.
Read the Bookstart studies here
 

Research updates

Highlighting the relevance of Bookstart to recent policy and research developments.
Read the research updates here.

Research reviews

Illustrating academic research that supports the Bookstart programme.
Read the research reviews here.