Is reading often one of your new year’s resolutions? Well, you’re in luck- this week is all about reading! Reading is not only a lifelong skill- it is a cherished activity that can be shared within the family. Reading sparks imagination, helps children develop empathy, and learn more about the world around them. By having not only a week devoted to reading, but reading all year long, your child will be able to enhance their learning inside and outside of the classroom!

What is Literacy Week?

Celebrate Literacy Week, Florida! takes place the week of January 22-26, 2024, with the goal of promoting resiliency through literacy and good reading habits. This annual event has a different theme each year, and this year’s theme is Believe in Your “Shelf” – Building Resiliency Through Reading. This year’s featured book is The Little Butterfly That Could by Ross Burach, which explores themes of confidence, independence, persistence, and resiliency. However, you can read whichever book your child chooses- not only this week, but every week of the year. Magazines, graphic novels, and audiobooks count too!

Why is Literacy Important?

• The benefits of reading go far beyond literacy! Reading can start early; simply exposing children- even babies- to words helps build their language skills, and even the experience of holding a book supports babies’ cognitive development.

• Reading helps children learn vocabulary and grammar, especially with words that they may not normally hear within their household. Books introduce new ways of putting words together, which helps children make sense of language and build knowledge on a variety of topics.

• In addition to language and vocabulary, reading can help children develop empathy. Stories can introduce children to characters whose lives are different from theirs, and help them better understand other people’s feelings, cultures, and lifestyles. At the moment, I like to use reading to help my child understand why sharing makes everyone feel happy!

How to Include Reading at Home & On the Go

• Try reading aloud together as a family for a minimum of 15 minutes a day. You can read to your child or have them read to you! Of course, carving out a set time for reading each day is easier said than done- if reading at bedtime isn’t the best for your family, consider reading together at the breakfast table or after school.

• There may be days when kids want to read on their own, and that’s great! Having a cozy corner for reading can make it that much easier. For very young children, let them explore board books by holding them, practicing turning the pages, and pointing out the pictures to them. And if the books happen to end up in their mouth? No worries!



• Take story time outside! Grab a blanket and some books and find a shady spot in your backyard or at a park. Moving story time outside can let them wander while you read aloud- they’ll still catch the words and language!

During literacy week and beyond, reading is a wonderful chance to let your child not only hear language, but connect with parents and caregivers. At the Coalition, we celebrate literacy all year long! Visit one of our lending libraries at our Palm Springs or Port Center offices to check out free books and resources for your family: https://elcpalmbeach.library.site/