Little steps
Little steps is our free programme for children aged two to five. It helps them reach the level they need for starting school.
Our friendly animal characters guide you through new topics using books and activities.
Little steps cards
We introduce eight new characters each year.
The 2025 characters are woodland animals:
Understand feelings with Hattie the hedgehog.
Learn about families with Ronnie the rabbit.
Explore numbers with Sammy the squirrel.
Go on a journey with Freddy the fox.
Build independence through daily routines with Maisy the mouse.
Discover rhythm and rhyme with Wilbur the woodpecker.
Explore nature with Bertie the badger.
Move to music with Olivia the owl.
How little steps works
When you sign up you get:
a little steps book bag
a card with tips to help your child get ready for school
your first character card with recommended books and activities to try at home
As your child completes cards, they earn stickers to collect. They can also earn certificates for completing the full yearly set.
The biggest reward is the time you spend together helping your child learn and grow.
You can also sign up at a library storytime session.
You can read the books and do the activities at home or each library runs regular little steps sessions. These include stories, activities and games to help your child learn and progress.
Information for parents and carers
Little steps supports children to be school-ready. It supports personal, social and emotional development. It helps their communication, mental health, well-being and physical activity.
At this age, support from parents and carers is vital. Little steps gives you simple ways to help your child understand themselves and the world around them.
It is free to borrow library books and you can choose any book you like. You can use a book from home, the library, an eBook or an eAudiobook.
We hope you find many books your child will enjoy. Choose books that match your child’s reading level.
Lancashire library staff, speech and language specialists and health practitioners choose the recommended books . The books help children build skills linked to the early years foundation stage.
Little steps encourages your child to flourish through reading, learning and playing.