November 17, 2022, is Family Reading Night.  This is an annual Secretary of State Illinois event that inspires families to spend quality time reading together. This year’s theme is Read Beyond the Beaten Path.

Here are some Family Reading Night ideas you can try out with your family or if you are planning an event.

Read in Multiple Languages!

Read a page of a favorite book in English, then in another language.

Include the Community.

Invite authors to read and/or speak about their books at an event. Local authors can come and sign their books, promoting their work while contributing to the community. It is always fun to ask some community guest speakers to read a story, such as a police officer or fireman. They might be willing to bring their vehicles!

Have Snacks and Activities.

Reading makes you hungry! Provide favorite snack recipes and ingredients for the children to make together with their families. An additional fun activity involves Origami. Read step by step instructions and create an unforgettable piece of art.

Make it Fun!

Choose a theme! Add “make and take” activities, such as a home-made bookmark. Ask volunteers to dress up. If possible, ask local library staff to attend. They can even sign-up people for a library card!

Did you Know?

The YWCA Literacy Council has a free one-on-one adult tutoring program funded by the Secretary of State. Contact us for more information.

– Bonnie