National Family Literacy Month is an annual designation observed in November. This month, get the whole family snuggled up on the couch and open up a good book. Studies show that reading aloud with mom or dad is the most important activity when it comes to preparing children to read on their own. Reading helps with vocabulary, writing skills, attention span, memory, and teaches us about other times and places. Even if your child is just an infant, you should still take the time to read to them, discuss pictures as they hear your voice as you read stories to them… And believe it or not, studies show that alone can have a profound effect on your child when it comes to learning later on in life.
Here are ways you can promote family literacy at home.
- Set aside time each day for reading.
- Keep books visible around the house.
- Make regular visits to the library.
- Read the book version of your child’s favorite movie.
- Organize a children’s book club with friends in the neighborhood.
Research shows that when families read together, learning happens and memories are made that last a lifetime. While National Family Literacy Day is celebrated each year on November 1, there’s no reason not to continue the celebration all month long!
