IT’S usually a “book before bedtime” that parents share with their children.

But one York school is taking a completely different approach, encouraging mums, dads and carers to read to their children before breakfast.

Woodthorpe Primary School’s Books For Breakfast project encourages parents to take their child into school 40 minutes before school starts to share books and have breakfast together.

Staff set up tents based around a story book, providing parents and children with a place to talk, read and communicate.

Sainsbury’s and the Co-operative food stores have sponsored the project by providing the food.

Lisa Dewhurst, reception class teacher, said: “We have found it is a lovely way for the children to start the day with their parents and it’s a fantastic way to improve children’s communication skills.

“It has been so successful that we have decided to develop this within our school community, inviting children from our local playgroup and also childminders to take part in this event.