On January 27, 2026, families, educators, libraries and literacy groups from coast to coast will come together to celebrate Family Literacy Day, an annual initiative dedicated to encouraging families to read and engage in other literacy-related activities together.
This year, ABC Life Literacy Canada invites Canadians to embrace the theme “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.
“Family literacy is rooted in the simple idea that everyday moments can be powerful learning opportunities,” says Alison Howard, Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada. “Cooking and eating together naturally introduces reading, writing, math, science and communication skills. Best of all, these experiences don’t feel like formal lessons — they feel like quality family time.”
Family Literacy Day began in 1999 and has grown into a well-loved event across the country. Every year, schools, libraries and community groups host free events and activities to bring families together to learn together. ABC Life Literacy Canada also offers many free resources for anyone who wants to take part.
Spending time each day reading with children or engaging with them in learning activities has a deep impact on their development, strengthening vocabulary, confidence and foundational literacy skills. These shared moments benefit adults as well, reinforcing lifelong learning at every age.
ABC Life Literacy Canada is pleased to welcome back Barbara Reid, award-winning Canadian author and world-renowned modelling clay illustrator, as the Honorary Chair for Family Literacy Day. Reid will lead a free virtual event for families across the country on January 22, featuring a hands-on demonstration of how to create artwork using clay.
“I’m delighted to continue partnering with ABC Life Literacy Canada to celebrate Family Literacy Day,” says Reid. “Food and mealtime routines provide real-world opportunities to learn together. When families approach the kitchen as a place for creativity and connection, they nurture both their minds and their relationships.”
For those who want to take part in Family Literacy Day, visit FamilyLiteracyDay.ca to access free learning activities and materials, or to find a local event. Here are a few of the events taking place across the country:
- Langley Literacy Network in Langley, BC is hosting a weeklong literacy fair featuring storytime with local authors, bookmark making, a book and recipe swap table and more.
- Grimshaw Municipal Library in Grimshaw, AB is inviting families for games and activities all about mealtimes, recipes and sharing food.
- Centre for Family Literacy in Edmonton, AB is inviting families to engage in hands-on activities that support literacy and learning skills, such as following recipes, creating shopping lists and sharing stories at the dinner table.
- Foundations Learning & Skills Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, SK is teaming up with the Saskatoon Public Library to put on an event for families. All families will receive a free book and can win prizes.
- Central Library in London, ON is hosting a fun-filled community celebration. Enjoy songs, stories and activities with all your favourite librarians, discover community organizations and have some snacks.
- Milton Public Library in Milton, ON is hosting a family storytime led by award-winning children’s author Lana Button. Lana will share her book “One Can”, a touching story of a child who learns to give and receive — and wants only to give again in return.
- Ramara Township Public Library in Ramara, ON is hosting a special storytime with stories, songs, a snack and a craft!
- Richmond Hill Public Library in Richmond Hill, ON is hosting an interactive performance by Chef Bisous, followed by food-themed crafts and activities.
- Dartmouth Learning Network in Dartmouth, NS is hosting a free family event focused on learning ways to make mealtime family learning time. There will be food, games, activities and free books for every family.
For more information about Family Literacy Day, to access free resources or to find an event in your community, visit FamilyLiteracyDay.ca.
