Family Literacy Day

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Family Literacy Day® (FLD) was created by ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation and Honda Canada
in 1999 to promote the importance of reading and learning together as a family all year round.

Click here for answers to the questions featured on FLD advertisements and promotional material.

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 FLD. Most notable is the continued commitment of founding sponsor Honda Canada, who helps make Family Literacy Day successful. Not only does Honda Canada sponsor the program, but several dealers across Canada participate in the initiative by distributing promotional items, hosting activities and helping out with other events.

FLD World Record Attempt

Thanks to everyone who participated in the FLD World Record Attempt! It was a great success all across Canada and a perfect way to start Family Literacy Day 2009 celebrations. Check back soon for details on Family Literacy Day 2010!

More than 119,000 Canadians were documented participating in the Family Literacy Day World Record Attempt to break the Guinness World Record for “Most Children Reading With an Adult, Multiple Locations.” While Canada succeeded in surpassing the original U.S. record of 78,791 participants, Guinness officials recently notified ABC CANADA that the U.S. organization which originally set the record in 2006 had officially set a new record with 238,620 participants. Canada should be extremely proud of the unprecedented levels of participation, which strongly supported the importance of adults and children reading and learning together.

Munsch at Home Contest

Every year, in celebration of Family Literacy Day, ABC CANADA runs the Munsch at Home contest. This contest gives a Canadian family a chance to win a visit from renowned children's author, and FLD Honorary Chair, Robert Munsch!

It's easy to apply! All you have to do is tell us how you will celebrate Family Literacy Day. Winners are chosen based on creativity, originality and involvement of the whole family. Please check back in August 2009 for this year's entry form.

Honourary Chair: Robert Munsch

In 2003, Family Literacy Day appointed beloved children's writer and Canada’s best-selling author Robert Munsch as Honorary 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.