There’s a magical hush in the air this May as Bookbug Week returns with a bedtime theme that’s set to charm families across the Highlands and beyond.
From 12 to 18 May, High Life Highland libraries are marking the occasion with a heartwarming new addition: Makaton Bookbug sessions, where signing joins singing to make stories more inclusive than ever.
Makaton, a unique language programme that uses signs and symbols alongside speech, helps children and adults communicate, whether they’re learning to talk or navigating the world in a different way.
It’s used by over 100,000 people across the UK, and now it’s making a beautiful entrance into Highland libraries with some very special Bookbug sessions.
Culloden Library is leading the way with a brand new monthly evening event starting on 13 May, blending the joy of bedtime storytelling with the gentle rhythm of Makaton from 6.30 to 7pm.
Fort William and Inverness libraries are also introducing Makaton into their regular Bookbug sessions, helping ensure that every child, no matter how they communicate, feels welcomed and included.
Even the ever-popular Bookbug at Inverness’s Victorian Market is embracing Makaton, opening doors for more little listeners to join in the fun.
The theme this year is Bookbug’s Big Bedtime, inviting families to snuggle up for lullabies, gentle rhymes and dreamy tales as the day winds down.
Julie Corcoran, Head of Libraries at High Life Highland, says it best:
“We love the buzz of Bookbug Week across all our libraries and are delighted to be introducing new elements such as Makaton to ensure we are reaching as wide an audience as possible.”
She adds:
“Bookbug Week is all about encouraging new families to join in, and bedtime stories are the perfect way to build precious, peaceful moments together, especially in a world where quiet connection can be hard to find.”
These sessions are free, cosy and carefully curated for children aged 0 to 5, with the gentle guidance of library staff and Bookbug leaders who know how to create a little magic with a simple rhyme or song.
Whether you’re a regular Bookbug attendee or joining for the first time, this week is a perfect invitation to slow down, share a story, and discover new ways to connect, with or without words.
To find your nearest Bookbug session, visit the High Life Highland website, check your local library’s Facebook page, or explore the Bookbug App
Some events may need to be booked in advance due to limited space, so do check ahead.
