Ce document est disponible en français

Family Literacy Day® was created by ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation in 1999 with support from founding sponsor Honda Canada to promote the importance of reading and learning together as a family all year round.

Every year on January 27, families and communities across Canada celebrate this special day at literacy-themed events coordinated by literacy organizations, schools, public libraries and families.

In addition to the thousands of individuals, groups, businesses and families across Canada who have embraced Family Literacy Day, many corporate and media partners have donated time and services to help ABC CANADA get the word out about Family Literacy Day. Most notable is the continued commitment of founding sponsor Honda Canada. The company even developed a TV commercial to promote its support of Family Literacy Day, which powerfully conveys the message that parents, as well as their children, benefit from engaging in reading and learning activities together.

Honourary Chair: Robert Munsch

In 2003, Family Literacy Day appointed beloved children’s writer and Canada’s best-selling author Robert Munsch as Honourary Chair. Author of more than 50 books for kids, including The Paper Bag Princess, Thomas’s Snowsuit and Love You Forever, Robert brings over two decades of storytelling experience to the Family Literacy Day initiative. He provides support for Family Literacy Day activities coordinated by ABC CANADA, as well as support in public relations and marketing activities.

Robert has participated in readings across the country. He also appears in a TV public service announcement (above) singing with children and encouraging all families to read, write, surf and sing together.

Read more about Robert:

• A Munsch Moment
• NAME TAGS, story for FLD
• Robert Munsch’s Website

Munsch at Home Contest

Canadian families are eligible to enter the Munsch at Home contest, inspired by the many families across the country that hold their own Family Literacy Day celebrations. Winning families receive a personal visit from Robert Munsch, who then also conducts a public reading at a public library or literacy organization chosen by the family.

To enter the contest, families must complete an official application form telling ABC CANADA what they are planning for their Family Literacy Day party. Entries are judged for the creativity of the event planned. To date, there have been three winners: the Lee family of Calgary, AB, in 2006; the Blackley family of Port Moody, BC, in 2007; and the Kurbis-Friesen family of Winnipeg, MB, in 2008. See complete contest rules below.

• Complete Contest Rules
• Application Form
• Promotional Flyer