Celebrating Literacy in the Early Years: ABC Family Literacy Day at the Henry Grube Education Centre

In the 2022-2027 Kamloops-Thompson District Strategic Plan, literacy development is foundational to supporting learning opportunities that inspire students to thrive. When children begin to read, view, and listen to texts that captivate their imaginations, it is the beginning of a joyous journey of celebrating literacy moments and events throughout their lives.

Saturday, January 21st, Kamloops’ 15^th annual celebration of literacy made its return. Interior Savings’ Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week kicked off with ABC Family Literacy Day at the Henry Grube Centre.

Kamloops Y BC, Kamloops Regional Library, and School District No. 73 asked their community how they could MAKE IT COUNT! With mathematics in mind, Kamloops community partners provided crafts, games, services and entertainment to over 325 children and families. The two-hour event encouraged families to unplug from their screens and spend time together.

“This is a day where we celebrate family connections, unplugging and playing and just have tons of FUN!” shared Crystal Murgatroyd, Family Outreach Coordinator Kamloops Y BC.

"Throughout Unplug and Play Week, there are lots of community events happening, but what's nice about ABC — it's like one big draw that the community can attend to celebrate literacy as a large group rather than splitting out into smaller weekly groups," said Melissa Miller, Thompson-Nicola Regional Library Early Years Coordinator. "It is one big celebration."

“While Interior Savings Unplug and Play Week did its best to keep going through the pandemic, there’s no substitute for being back in person. Learning should be fun for everyone involved which is why we’ve created an event where stories and activities are engaging for all ages, literacy levels and life experiences,” Marianne Vande Pol, SD 73 Early Years Coordinator.

To finish the week, Family Literacy Day takes place every January 27^th to raise awareness about the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family. (website)