However, she has also called for the funding to be extended beyond 2025.
The programme sets out to provide a reading pack to every baby aged 0-12 months each year. The pack is delivered through health visitors and encourages parents and carers to read to babies from the very start of their lives.
The Lagan Valley MLA has said: “Whilst it is hugely positive that Bookstart Baby is being funded until March 2025, this is a crucial programme and longer-term funding is required.
“It’s well-known by now just how abundant the benefits we see in our children and young people are from reading to them from as early as possible. As policymakers we must recognise the need for early intervention, and act on it.
“The cost of such an important programme is a necessary investment in our children’s futures, and is something which could potentially be funded by multiple departments given its cross-cutting nature.
“I have written to the Education Minister, encouraging him to extend the funding beyond 2025.”