NATIONAL FAMILY LITERACY DAY
Families gather around to observe National Family Literacy Day on November 1st. Families who read together succeed together.
#FamilyLiteracyDay
There are more reasons than ever before for families to read aloud to their children from a young age. Besides the fact that reading creates quiet, quality family time, it develops early vocabulary skills. If that wasn’t enough to get a family reading together, check out these reasons:
- Expands their attention span and yours. Read chapter books even to your youngest child. They may drift off to sleep, but they are listening and their attention span will lengthen.
- It’s free. Books can be checked out from the library.
- You can read well above a child’s level, and they will still listen and comprehend.
- Improve listening skills. See above.
- It’s portable. Reading doesn’t require batteries. Except at night.
- Reading is a tool that can never be unlearned. Once a child learns to read, they never stop. You’ll know because you’ll have to stop spelling certain words to your spouse.
- It improves imagination and creativity.
- Reading opens up a dialogue between parent and child.
HOW TO OBSERVE FAMILY LITERACY DAY
Celebrated across America, this day focuses on special activities and events that showcase the importance of family literacy programs. Attend a program or activity at a school or library near you. Get together with family and read a book together. Other ways to celebrate National Family Literacy Day include:
- Visiting the library and getting a library card.
- Creating a reading nook in your home.
- Starting a tradition of reading time at home.
- Explore new genres with your children. Sometimes a different topic is all it takes to get children excited about reading.
- Have a spelling bee night.
- Play Scrabble or other word games.
You can also share your favorite ways to encourage reading in your family. If you’re looking for suggestions, read 9 Ways to Encourage Reading in Your Home. While you’re celebrating, be sure to use #FamilyLiteracyDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL FAMILY LITERACY DAY HISTORY
In 1994, the 103rd Congress passed Joint Resolution 413 Designating November 1 National Family Literacy Day. The day kicks off National Literacy Month.