Bookmates is a Manitoba based non-profit organization established in 1984 that promotes and supports family literacy through these activities:

• Developing family literacy and learning programs in partnership with community organizations and parents
  
  
• Training people to facilitate programs for families in their own communities
  
  
• Providing programs for groups of parents and children through the support of a community organization
  
  
• Promoting awareness of family literacy and learning in Manitoba and beyond

Our programs are ideal for family resource centres, child care facilities, schools, libraries and other organizations that care about families, and are designed to enhance the learning of young children, their parents and other caregivers.

Family Literacy Day was established in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy, and is held every year on January 27th. On that day, we try to raise awareness of the importance of reading and doing other literacy related activities as a family. Doing learning activities in the home is important to a child’s development. Even just fifteen minutes a day can improve a child’s reading level and can help parents improve their skills as well.

In Manitoba, literacy organizations are promoting Family Literacy Day through the “Journey to Learning” draw. Fill out the form available at any participating public library in Manitoba, including the Winnipeg Public Library. Contest ends January 31st and winners will be contacted. But the real way to win is to making reading with your child part of your daily routine.

We have two new Family Learning Olympic kits: one with Aboriginal culture themed activities, and another that includes a variety of multi-cultural activities from around the world. Please contact us to learn more or to book a kit for your event, and let the games - and the learning - begin!