Family Literacy Day is coming up on January 27, 2026 and this year’s theme is “Make mealtime family learning time.” Preparing for mealtime is a fun (and tasty) way for families to learn together. Whether it’s following recipes, making shopping lists, or sharing stories at the dinner table, make your mealtime family learning time.
Schools and libraries have long taken part in Family Literacy Day festivities and are once again encouraged to celebrate. Here are a few ways that your school or library can take part in the festivities.
Virtual event with Barbara Reid
Join ABC Life Literacy Canada and Family Literacy Day Honorary Chair Barbara Reid for an exciting virtual event on Thursday January 22, 2026 at 4:30pm ET. Barbara will be doing a demonstration on how to use clay to create a picture. She will share unique techniques you can use to make different things. The event will end with a Q&A.
Schools and libraries can register for the event and broadcast it at their location to those in attendance. This event is ideal for children in grades 1 to 6 and their families. To participate, all you need are paper plates or cardboard, modelling clay in a variety of colours, and toothpicks or sharp pencils for each participant. Register now.
Distribute free learning resources
ABC Life Literacy Canada has a variety of free learning resources available. Distribute them at your event or let families take them home to work on together. Download bookmarks, tip sheets and activities at the direct links below:
Host your own event
Want to host your own unique Family Literacy Day event? We’ve got you covered! Our free Event Coordinator’s Guide has step-by-step instructions on how to run a successful Family Literacy Day event, as well as event ideas. We also have free posters, social media posts and PSAs to help you promote your event. Download these resources for free at the links below:
- Poster (8.5 x 11″)
- Poster (11 x 17″)
- Print PSAs
- Web banners
- Social media images & social media guide
- Stories & images
Don’t forget to register your event at FamilyLiteracyDay.ca! Those who register by January 16, 2026 will be entered into a draw to receive 1 of 3 $20 gift cards for your event!
About Family Literacy Day
Family Literacy Day was created in 1999 to raise awareness about the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family. 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. Learn more at FamilyLiteracyDay.ca.
