Family Literacy Day 2026
Family Literacy Day is celebrated each year on January 27 to highlight the importance of reading and learning together as a family. It reminds us that everyday activities at home can help children build strong literacy skills while spending meaningful time with the people they love.
This year’s Family Literacy Day theme is “Make Mealtime Family Learning Time.” Mealtimes are a great opportunity to talk, read, count, follow recipes, and share stories. These simple moments help children develop language, problem-solving, and listening skills.
Families are encouraged to take part on Tuesday, January 27, or during the weekend before, by enjoying literacy-related activities together. These can include:
- Baking or cooking and reading recipes together
- Playing board or card games
- Creating songs, stories, or drawings
- Talking about daily routines and family traditions
ABC Life Literacy Canada has created helpful resources to support families. A Family Literacy Day Activity Book connected to this year’s theme is available, along with a tip sheet that offers even more activity ideas. Their website also includes many literacy activities that families can enjoy at home throughout the year.
Special Virtual Event with Barbara Reid
To celebrate Family Literacy Day, Barbara Reid, Honorary Chair of ABC Life Literacy Canada, will host a virtual presentation for families. Barbara Reid is a well-known Canadian author and illustrator who creates artwork using clay.
This virtual session is geared toward students in Grades 1 to 6 and will guide families through using clay to create a picture together.
Event details:
- Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
- Time: 4:30 p.m.
- Format: Virtual
Families can sign up for this free event by following this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NurJMkI-QcmMhxDlJB3Qig#/registration
Families are also invited to share how they are celebrating Family Literacy Day at home on social media using #FamilyLiteracyDay or #FLD2026.
Family Literacy Day is a wonderful reminder that learning happens every day — especially when families learn together.