Celebrate Family Literacy Day
- EFN Staff | January 27, 2014
Literacy has always been important to Dave Salagubas, and it was instilled in him at a young age.
"As a child, I was always read to," he recalls.
Now the 30-year-old father of two children (both under the age of two) wants to pass on those skills to his son and daughter, so they also grow up with strong literacy skills.
"I want to make sure my kids have to best chance to succeed in life, and I want to see others succeed, too."
Salagubas is so passionate about literacy that he has served as a tutor and now a board member for READ Saskatoon, a volunteer organization that provides literacy services to individuals, families, workplaces, and the community. While located in Saskatoon, it has helped communities across the province, including around a dozen First Nations.
On January 27, READ Saskatoon will join in celebration the 15th annual national Family Literacy Day. This year, it is encouraging families to take "15 Minutes of Fun" to learn together, as well as contests and draws.
"15 Minutes of Fun is a family activity BINGO card that is full of ideas to keep your family busy and learning," says Sheryl Harrow-Yurach, Executive Director of READ Saskatoon. "The fast-paced and fun activities will be a blast for your family, and you'll be helping your children learn valuable literacy skills along the way."
As well, READ Saskatoon is giving away a book every day from January 13 to 31. To be entered in the draw, people just need to call READ Saskatoon at (306) 652-5448 or email lori.tkachuk@readsaskatoon.com.
Harrow-Yurach notes taking time every day to read with your child is crucial to his or her literacy development, but will also improve the overall well-being of the whole family.
"Establishing a culture of learning at home encourages an exchange of ideas, enriches family relationships, and bolsters confidence at home, at work, and at school."
Salagubas agrees literacy is an important tool for everyone to have.
"enables people to establish a more secure life for themselves and those that depend on them. Its also important to understand and be in control of your own finances."
Nearly 90 per cent of READ Saskatoons long-term learners reach their goals, which include attending post-secondary, conversation skills, and filling out paperwork. Salagubas points to a man who couldn't read work orders in his job, but can now thanks to tutoring sessions.