The love of a good book is something that’s taught at a young age.
It’s something kids learn when they share in the reading of a bedtime story with their parents, and it's a love that is fostered when they’re encouraged to read as they grow older.
The kids who receive that encouragement and attention learn there’s nothing quite like diving into a new book—cracking the spine for the first time and leafing through the first few pages, in search of a new adventure.
And, with that lesson, those kids are the ones who are set up for future success.
Research has shown that kids who are read to at a young age and whose parents encourage reading and literacy-building activities in the home are better prepared for success in school, and they are also more likely to have a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Such research is the basis of Family Literacy Day—a day started 16 years ago by the non-profit group ABC Life Literacy Canada to raise awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.
Family Literacy Day is celebrated each year on Jan. 27.
The ability to read is something that can often be taken for granted in Canada, but all it takes is a look at the stats to quash that assumption.
According to ABC Life, nine million adult Canadians struggle with literacy. That’s four out of 10 Canadians between the ages of 16 and 65 whose literacy skills are below the level of a high school graduate.
Of those people, 15 per cent have serious problems reading printed materials and an additional 27 per cent are unable to complete simple reading tasks.
It’s worth pointing out that Alberta is among the most literate of Canada’s provinces. But even so, that doesn’t mean there isn’t more we could do to improve the literacy of our citizens, whether that be through family activities with kids, the encouragement of teachers at school or through literacy programs for struggling adults.
Improved literacy is an investment in the future of our province and country.
High literacy levels translate into improved employment opportunities, self-confidence and overall wellness. Literacy also increases a person’s understanding of social and political issues, making them more likely to not only vote, but also make informed decisions when they do.
So, on Monday, Jan. 27, why not take a cue from ABC Life and read with your children or on your own. Find yourself a good book, curl up on the couch and dive into a new world.
Not only will the experience be enjoyable, it will also pay off.
