Families throughout B.C. are coming together to explore early learning and literacy through play, with Family Literacy Week activities taking place in communities this week, Jan. 21-28.

“Children who engage in play-based learning develop important literacy and social skills, setting them up for success,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education. “Family Literacy Week is a fantastic opportunity to engage children in community activities, meet new friends and have fun, while also developing literacy skills that drive success in school and life.”

For the past 18 years, the Province has proclaimed Jan. 27 as Family Literacy Day. This is the second year the Province is extending the celebration from one day to an entire week, allowing more time for events in libraries and other community spaces.

For example, the Kaslo & District Public Library is hosting a Family Literacy Week scavenger hunt with prizes. The Quadra Island Community Centre is hosting a "Seuss Fest" with Dr. Seuss-themed costumes, activities and stories.

“There is nothing more magical than watching a child get lost in a great book, and nothing more fun than helping children learn how to read,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “It is never too early or too late to give our kids a strong foundation in literacy, as they are our future post-secondary graduates and builders of our beautiful province.”

Many communities are hosting family-literacy events with activities, snacks, stories and games that build on this year’s food-related theme, ‘What’s on my Plate?’ Families in Ashcroft and Cache Creek can attend pizza parties. Abbotsford families can attend a free pancake breakfast at the Clearbrook Fire Hall on Saturday, Jan. 27.

“Literacy flourishes when families read, play and work together," said Anne Cooper, board chair, Decoda Literacy Solutions. “This year, through our Family Literacy Week theme, “What's on My Plate?’, we are encouraging families to talk about food, read recipes, prepare food together and enjoy sharing family meals.”

For more information and to find out what’s happening in your community, visit: http://www.decoda.ca/wp-content/uploads/FLW_Event-List_2018_web.pdf

This year, government has provided over $2 million in support of community literacy to Decoda Literacy Solutions. Decoda uses this funding to support the co-ordination of community literacy services and initiatives throughout the province. The Province also contributes $500,000 for Post Media’s Raise-a-Reader campaign and programs each year.

Learn More:

Read the proclamation here: http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/proclamations/proclamations/FamLitWk2018

Decoda Literacy: www.decoda.ca/literacy-in-bc/