Family Literacy Day 2022

Family Literacy focuses on parents and other family members working to improve the reading, writing, and general learning skills of the whole family.

Did you know that the human brain grows most rapidly from birth to 3 years of age? Reading and learning each day is crucial for a child’s development and can improve the literacy skills of both children and guardians dramatically. Establishing strong literacy skills from an early age encourages life-long learning and educational success later in life. Check out this video by the London Child and Youth Network that explains the importance of literacy from the very beginning of a child’s life. 

Family Literacy Day (FLD) is an annual initiative by ABC Life Literacy Canada that has taken place every January 27th since 1999. FLD raises awareness about the importance of engaging in literacy-related activities as a family.

This year’s Family Literacy Day theme is Learning in the Great Outdoors. Spending time in nature has countless benefits for the body and mind. The great outdoors provides excellent opportunities for fun family learning time.

5 ideas for learning in the great outdoors

1. Alphabet scavenger hunt

Get outside for a family walk and try to spot things that start with each letter of the alphabet along the way. Bring a notepad and pen with you and write down what you find for each letter!

2. Create a map of your favourite trail or outdoor space

Visit your favourite outdoor space as a family, and when you return, work together to create a map of it. Have the kids write down the landmarks, create a legend, and start sketching. Don’t forget to include a compass!

3. Identify species of plants, trees, and animals

Before going outside, look up what species are commonly found in your area, make a list, and then go out and try to find some! If you’re unsure of what something is, you can use a reverse image searcher like Google Lens, or take a picture and try looking it up together later.

4. Listen to audiobooks

Listening to an audiobook while out for a walk is a great way to pass the time while learning. Just be sure to only have one headphone in so that you can still hear your surroundings!

Sidenote: Did you know that most libraries in the area use the Libby app, which grants patrons free access to a full catalogue of e-books and audiobooks? Check it out if you haven't already!

5. Activities from ABC Life Literacy’s Learning in the Great Outdoors Activity book!

This colourful 12-page book is jam-packed with fun outdoor activities and worksheets.

Family Literacy Day events

We want to highlight 3 free virtual FLD events—two that are local to our catchment area, and one organized by ABC Life Literacy. Check out the Family Literacy Day Calendar to find FLD events taking place across Canada. Due to the pandemic, many events are taking place virtually and could be attended from anywhere.

Virtual author event with Bridget George through the London Public Library

Celebrate FLD with award-winning Anishinaabe author-illustrator Bridget George on January 27th at 9:30 AM. Bridget’s picture book “It’s a Mitig!” is a joyful celebration of nature, language, and culture. Register online or by phone at 519-661-4600. This event is recommended for families with children ages 4-10.

The London Public Library also has a webpage for FLD that includes more information on this event, resources for parents and teachers, and an outdoor reading list. Family Literacy Day Discovery Bags are available at many locations starting on January 27th, while quantities last.

Virtual programming all day from the Oxford County Library

The Oxford County Library is hosting 6 different virtual programs throughout the day on January 27th to help you engage in literacy-boosting activities that encourage you to learn as a family in the great outdoors. Click here for details!

Virtual event with Author, Illustrator, and FLD Honorary Chair Barbara Reid

Barbara Reid will be doing a demonstration on how to use clay to create a picture on January 27th at 4:30 PM. She will share unique techniques you can use to make different things. The event will end with a Q&A. Learn more and register here. This event is recommended for families with children in grades 1-6.

Happy (early) Family Literacy Day! Be sure to visit www.familyliteracyday.ca for more information, resources, and events.