Each year on January 27, children and adults across Canada celebrate Family Literacy Day by participating in activities designed to promote reading and learning as family activities.

ABC Canada, a national literacy organization, offers promotional ideas and materials for this event to local agencies like ours. In turn, we invite families to join us for a fun time! In the last few years, CUPE 22 has supported a family skate. We serve hot chocolate and ask local celebrities to read to children. We?ve had reading contests, family reading at a senior citizens’ residence and uniformed community leaders (policemen, firefighters, dentists and Girl Guides) taking the time to promote reading to children.

We have also hosted a “Reading for Families” event in partnership with the Empire Living Center. They were great hosts, providing refreshments for all there. Local celebrities read stories for children, adults and seniors.

Additionally, we offer information and support to other local agencies who also recognize the influence adults have in the development of young children. Our office offers a children’s library for any parent to use.

Overall the North Bay Literacy Council embraces our strategy to reduce the number of people who grow up with learning or reading problems. Family Literacy activities are one way we are able to reduce the number of people who grow up with literacy difficulties.