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Family Literacy Week encouraging people to get active while improving their literacy skills

Read your favourite book

Family Literacy Week has officially started and British Columbians are encouraged to read their favourite book, get outside, play games and connect with their loved ones virtually while improving their literacy skills.

The Ministry of Education and The Ministry of Municipal Affairs has proclaimed Jan. 24 to 31, 2021, as Family Literacy Week. This year’s theme is ‘Lets Be Active! Move, Play, Learn.’

"Children's literacy skills expand and grow much faster when families read, play and learn together," says Minister of Education Jennifer Whiteside. "Family Literacy Week is a great opportunity to focus on dynamic ways to support our youngest learners so they can develop the skills they need to succeed in their school years and beyond."

The 2021 theme is focused on the longterm and wide-ranging benefits of being active. The province has proclaimed Jan. 27 as Family Literacy Day for the last 21 years. 2021 is the fifth year that B.C. has extended the celebration from one day to more than a week.

"Families have learned to adjust to doing things differently under COVID-19, spending more time together and embracing creativity while learning," says Minister of Municipal Affairs Josie Osborne. "Family Literacy Week is a wonderful time to connect with children, have fun together and read inspiring stories, and these activities help to build a solid foundation in literacy and lifelong learning.”

The government has provided more than $2 million this year to Decoda Literacy Solutions in support of community literacy. The funding is used to support literacy services and initiatives throughout B.C.

The province also contributes $500,000 to Postmedia’s Raise-a-Reader campaign each year.

"Active play is essential for children's development. It builds strength in so many areas - physical, social, emotional, language and thinking. Children learn by watching, so join in the fun,” says Margaret Sutherland, executive director at Decoda Literacy Solutions.

Decoda Literacy Solutions has provided a full list of Family Literacy Week events happening throughout the province.



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