Communiqué | July 2021

As we enter our second summer of the COVID-19 pandemic, after another school year filled with disruptions and challenges, it’s clear that far too many children are struggling with reading. Some may be behind by up to a year.

Access to books, resources and literacy guidance for families can help. That’s why we are so appreciative of the literacy partners, food banks, healthcare professionals and others working alongside us to encourage and inspire reading this summer and beyond.

Learn more about our collective initiatives in this edition of Communique, and please get in touch at info@childrensliteracy.ca or find us on social media (@CanLiteracy on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook) to keep the conversation going.

All our best,
Ariel R. Siller

We have joined forces with literacy organizations and food banks across Canada to launch the Read On Canada! initiative for its second year. Together, we have already distributed 67,000 books to kids at 74 food banks in communities across Canada and are growing our reach each week.

We also have lots of fun reading activities for all families at www.ReadOnCanada.ca. Join us on social media by sharing your own inspiring message about reading, using the hashtag #ReadOnCanada.

Interested in learning more? CBC Books has an excellent article covering the Read On Canada! program.

If you are looking to support children’s reading journeys this summer, consider donating to the Read On Canada! Fund. Every dollar you give puts two fun and enriching books into the hands of a child whose family is accessing food banks.

We spoke to CBC Radio stations across Canada about why it's so important for kids to keep reading on this summer. Listen to our CEO Ariel Siller on CBC London Morning sharing how the Read On Canada! initiative supports families.

The Globe and Mail published an excellent series of articles on children's literacy with a focus on reading during the pandemic. We spoke with them about how to encourage kids to read more, and how literacy represents a measure of hope for children in these difficult times. Find links to both articles here.
 
This terrific Quill & Quire piece covers the impact of COVID-19 on children's literacy, and how organizations are working together to mitigate its effects.
 
Global Edmonton took a look at how some children are falling behind due to pandemic-related impacts on reading. Our CEO Ariel Siller contributed advice on how families can help.


 

 

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