By Staff
January 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On January 27, 2025, families, libraries and literacy groups across the country will once again celebrate Family Literacy Day, an annual initiative that aims to encourage reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.
This year’s theme is “Learn to be Green, Together”, which encourages families to make a pledge together to learn ways to be greener, such as by using less electricity, commuting together and reusing items. Being green together is a fun way to learn as a family while being kind to the environment. When families understand the importance of protecting the environment, they can work together to make positive changes.
We asked Burlington’s Librarian, CEO Lita Barrie to show us how she would approach the reading of books and be greener a the same time. A daunting task if you take into account that books are printed on paper and trees are a large part of what is used to make paper.
But Lita Barrie was a good sport and had her picture taken with books that families would enjoy. A plant that could be watered was tucked in there somewhere.
Burlington Librarian and CEO Lita Barrie with family-based and her plant as she prepares for Family Literacy Day
“Family literacy is about families learning together in everyday ways, whether it’s reading books or enjoying fun activities as a family,” says Alison Howard, Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada. “Learning about the environment and how to protect it is a great addition to family literacy. For example, spending time in nature can spark curiosity and teach valuable lessons. It’s all about finding teachable moments in the activities we do every day.”
Family Literacy Day was started in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy Canada. Taking time every day to read or do a learning activity with children is crucial to a child’s development, improving a child’s literacy skills dramatically, and can help a parent improve their skills as well.
For those who want to take part in Family Literacy Day, simply visit FamilyLiteracyDay.ca to access free learning activities and materials, or to find a local event.
