Cook up a storm while building strong literacy skills throughout the month of January by participating in the Guelph Public Library’s Family Literacy Challenge in honor of Family Literacy Day on January 27. This year’s theme centers around family mealtimes as a fun (and tasty!) way to learn literacy skills together.
Starting today, patrons can pick up the reading challenge at any Library branch or download the challenge online to complete a variety of activities as a family throughout the month. Activities encourage reading, cooking, imagining, and playing together to build early literacy skills that help raise a reader. Submit completed challenges to the Library by January 31 to earn a sticker.
“There’s no better way to practice literacy skills as a family than during mealtimes,” says Meg Forestell-Page, Manager of Public Service at the Library. “From selecting recipes, reading ingredients, drawing meal plans, and imagining the cooking process from start to finish, the Library’s literacy challenge makes it easy to think of a small activity every day that can be done alongside meal time to promote early literacy.”
Early literacy programs in January
Do-it-yourself: Miniature cooking on January 4
On Sunday, January 4 at 2 p.m., attend the miniature cooking event at the Main Library’s Program Room, located at 100 Norfolk Street, to create collectible tiny food or desserts with a miniature cooking kit. All supplies are provided. For junior and intermediate grades and teens. Register online by January 3.
Family writing workshop with local author, Theresa Leyes on January 17
On Saturday, January 17 at 2 p.m., attend the family writing workshop at the Main Library’s Program Room, located at 100 Norfolk Street, to explore creative writing, share stories, and spark imagination with local author, Theresa Leyes. No experience needed. Register online by January 16.
Family Storytime on January 25
On Sunday, January 25 at 2:30 p.m. attend a family storytime at the East Side Branch located at 1 Starwood Drive, for songs, stories, and fingerplays, followed by a craft.
Alternatively, check out the Library’s fee story time events for the month of January using the online calendar.
Recommended reads for aspiring chefs
Taking time to read and learn together is crucial to your child’s development and Guelph Public Library is here to help.
Picture books that cook up literacy and connection.
Bring the whole family into the kitchen with the library’s newest cookbooks! These books are full of recipes and tips that make cooking together a delicious adventure for all ages.
About family literacy
Developing family literacy skills together helps improve reading and writing skills for the whole family. According to the National Center for Family Literacy, Children whose caregivers are involved with them in family literacy activities score 10 points higher on standardized reading tests. Learn more and access programs through ABC Life Literacy Canada.
Media contact
Meg Forestell-Page, Manager of Public Service
Guelph Public Library
548-855-0407
mforestell@guelphpl.ca