KEIGHLEY Library is once again supporting a popular annual rhyme challenge.

As part of the initiative, children aged six and under and their parents learn five rhymes together.

All those who take part receive a certificate.

There is also a free draw, with a chance for families to win prizes including Gruffalo story sacks and nursery rhyme puppet sets.

Rhymes this year include Hop A Little, Jump A Little; A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea; I Had A Little Turtle, and Run, Run, Run All Day to the Library – a variation of Row, Row, Row Your Boat.

Also, families can learn to sing Brother John, in both English and Urdu.

Sessions take place at Keighley Library every Saturday next month, starting at 11am.

Bradford Council's libraries service has devised the challenge, which is also being held at toddler groups, pre-schools, nurseries, schools and family hubs across the district.

A spokesperson says: "Parents and children learning rhymes together can help youngsters create social bonds and develop speech and language, and it can provide a foundation for later-emerging reading skills.

"Singing to babies is vital to help them learn language, according to a new study, which concluded that infants learn languages from rhythmic information as seen in nursery rhymes and songs.

"Over 5,000 people in the Bradford district took part in the challenge last year, and we are hoping the number can be beaten this time.

"Those wanting to take part in the challenge should contact their local library or speak to their nursery, toddler group or childcare provider."

Staff and volunteers working with participating children as part of the venture could win recognition.

They will be in with a chance of picking up a Bradford Libraries Rhyme Challenge Award.

Last year the accolades were handed out for best practice in libraries, toddler groups and nurseries, and there was a special individual award.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s executive member for healthy people and places, encourages parents and their children to take part.

She adds: "Our annual rhyme challenge enables families to have fun, whilst also developing the speech, language and communication skills of under-fives.

"It is an excellent start for young children's journey to a life-long love of reading."

Bradford Council also offers a number of online story and rhyme times, courtesy of its library staff, that families can enjoy.

For details and to view the playlist, visit bradford.gov.uk/libraries/children-and-young-people/online-story-and-rhyme-time