The ability to read is more than just a fundamental life skill; it is the gateway to a healthy and productive life. November 1st is National Family Literacy Day, and it’s time to celebrate! Throughout the month of November, you can enjoy reading-focused games and events at your local schools and libraries—but the fun doesn’t have to stop just because the calendar changes. You can promote reading and play word games by yourself or with your entire family…all year long.
Fun Reading Games
National Family Literacy Day is a start for creating a path to strong reading skills. Visit your local library for special events such as author visits, story times, book clubs, and family programs. Or bring the fun home and play some great reading games, including:
Reader Scavenger Hunt
- Before searching for hidden items, players must read passages of pre-selected books to learn what items to look for. Develop the game based on age groups and skill levels.
Reading Circle
- Have an extended family night where adults bring their favorite childhood book or story. Grandparents, parents, and children can share their stories with each other, taking turns reading.
Sleepover/Readover
- Spice up your child’s slumber party with group story time. Every participant brings his or her own storybook to share. Encourage the kids to bring their favorite nonfiction book, too!
Intervention For Struggling Children
Tests and surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) show higher scores for kids who read every day. Parents and caregivers can help ward off reading struggles, says the National Education Association (NEA), by reading to their kids and listening to them read out loud. This helps solidify comprehension of written passages and develop better language skills.
Literacy in the U.S.
Depending on who you ask, the number of people in the United States who cannot read or write varies— but according to a 2015 U.S. Department of Education study, 32 million adults cannot read above the fifth-grade level and 19% of high school graduates can hardly read at all. Starting at a young age is important to develop a love of reading, notes the USDE and the NEA, and children whose caregivers read to them each day is a crucial part of that structure. Developing strong technique comes with practice, but reading (and comprehending what was read) is a skill that can be improved and turned into a lifelong passion. And what better time to start than during National Literacy Month!
The ability to read is more than just a fundamental life skill; it is the gateway to a healthy and productive life. November 1st is National Family Literacy Day, and it’s time to celebrate!
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