Building a Brighter Future on International Literacy Day

12/10/23

blog

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What is the importance of Literacy Day celebration?

On September 8, we commemorate a significant occasion known as International Literacy Day. This day highlights the collective effort to enhance children’s reading and writing skills worldwide. The profound significance of literacy lies in its role as a gateway to a wealth of knowledge and opportunities, profoundly impacting children’s lives.

International Literacy Day reminds us of all of the paramount importance of equipping children with proficient reading and writing abilities. It prompts us to reflect on how we can facilitate optimal learning outcomes for our young learners. So, how can we ensure that children acquire the essential skills they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world? How can we make Literacy Day a meaningful experience that furthers their love of reading into a lifelong pursuit.
Let’s look into this essential question.

1. Plan group reading sessions:

Literacy Day should remind us to dedicate quality time reading with your child. Share storybooks, let them read too, and discuss the stories together. Reading together creates a special bond, expands vocabulary, and boosts comprehension skills. Moreover, it encourages children to ask questions and fosters a love for storytelling. Encourage them to read aloud, as it improves pronunciation and confidence. This shared experience not only enhances literacy but also strengthens the parent-child relationship.

2. Visit libraries: 

Take your child to the library regularly and make it a special outing on International Literacy Day. Libraries are treasure troves of books covering various interests. Encourage them to explore and pick books that captivate their imagination. Libraries often offer engaging reading programs, fostering a lifelong love for learning. Additionally, librarians can recommend age-appropriate books and offer reading challenges. Regular library visits expose children to a diverse range of books, broadening their horizons and nurturing a thirst for knowledge. 

3. Inculcate patience and encouragement: 

Learning to read and write is a journey with ups and downs. Be patient, offer support when they face challenges, and use Literacy Day as an occasion to celebrate their progress. Each child learns at their unique pace, and encouragement inspires confidence. Encouragement can take the form of praise, small rewards for milestones achieved, and celebrating their efforts. Creating a positive learning environment at home helps children overcome obstacles and build resilience.

4. Make reading fun: 

Ensure that reading is a delightful experience. Use colorful books, employ funny voices, or even act out stories. When reading is enjoyable, it becomes a cherished pastime, stimulating curiosity and creativity. Create a dedicated reading space, decorated with comfortable seating, suitable lighting, and their favourite books. Encourage them to choose books aligned with their interests, whether it’s adventure, mystery, or fantasy. Incorporate storytelling into everyday activities, like making up bedtime stories or creating imaginative scenarios during playtime. On Literacy Day, consider taking them to the bookstore and buying them books by their favourite authors.

5. Limit screen time: 

Reduce excessive screen time and designate a portion of the day for reading. Encourage kids to choose books over screens, fostering a habit of exploration and discovery. Reading time not only enhances knowledge but also cultivates critical thinking skills. Implement screen time rules that include educational apps and websites. Promote a balance between digital and print media, ensuring that children have access to a variety of reading materials. This approach nurtures a well-rounded skill set and a lifelong love for learning.

Support your child’s education, be a reading role model, and celebrate International Literacy Day by nurturing a love for reading that will benefit them throughout life. Remember that the gift of literacy opens doors to a world of opportunities and endless adventures in the pages of books.

The ability to read, write, and perform basic math is a crucial foundation for all future education and lifelong learning. However, there is currently a significant learning crisis, as government and non-government surveys have shown. Many children are enrolled in primary school, but it’s urgent that they acquire essential literacy and numeracy skills. Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children India) is focusing on two age groups: children between 3 and 8 years old in Anganwadi Centres, where we help them develop school readiness skills, and children between 6 and 8 years old in schools, where we work to strengthen their foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

Since 2008, Bal Raksha Bharat has played a significant role in supporting the education of hundreds of thousands of children. We achieve this by implementing state-level programs and advocating for national policies in the best interest of children’s learning. Its focus is on meeting the educational needs of children aged 3 to 18, aiming to create a safe, fair, and inclusive learning environment that prepares them for a purposeful adult life.

Soumi Halder

Manager-Program Campaign and Communication, Programme Support

“With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the social development sector, I am passionate about championing child rights and community empowerment through innovative communication strategies. I am Manager for Programme Campaigns and Communication with Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children)."