BC Council for Families

Literacy is a foundational skill that can easily be taken for granted. Without it, everyday living becomes difficult, whether understanding a bus schedule, following a recipe, or understanding safety instructions. That’s why National Family Literacy Day, January 27th, is a time to encourage family patterns that will set children on a strong learning path.

ABC Canada, founded by business, labour, and education leaders, started Family Literacy Day in 1999 to encourage families to read and learn together. Margaret Eaton, President of ABC Canada says, “Canadians can practice literacy every day by setting aside 15 minutes of family time to read, play games, sing or follow a recipe together.”

This year the national theme is singing, as it helps develop language skills by expanding vocabularies and introducing rhyming and rhythm. The Sing for Literacy Toolkit provides resources on how groups can host events and participate in different ways. There’s even a karaoke channel on the Sing for Literacy webpage!

Additionally, check out these Family Literacy Day events around BC on the Literacy BC site. Fun events like reading challenges, storytelling, and setting the world record for children reading with adults, all celebrate the experiences and importance of literacy. Register your agency’s event on the ABC Canada website too.