Never mind the wintry weather - it's the perfect excuse to snuggle up with a good book or stretch the imagination with some art and activities. Regardless of the snow, the year has barely begun and there's a lot to look forward to for you and your book-hungry kids.

It's National Storytelling Week from 31 January to 5 February! Encourage your family to tell stories from the past, challenge the children to write their own, get to the library and see if your school or early years' group is organising a book fair or a sponsored read or listen. How about a Bring a Story Party and dress up as a favourite character? A special storytime at playgroup or pre-school?

Then, before you know it it'll be World Book Day on 4 March! Every primary school child will receive a £1 Book Voucher which can be exchanged as full or part payment for a range of titles at high street retailers or through Usborne Books.

Explore the wonders of stories and develop your child's literacy in the process. Exciting stuff, this reading lark!

Fiona Redmond, Usborne Books, Chippenham 01249 655717