Poor literacy skills can impact your health.

Surveys show about half of all seniors in Canada reported being in poor physical health.   Further testing shows that they scored at the lowest level of reading proficiency.   By not being able to understand the instructions on medications, they had a greater chance of mistakes and the need for medical interventions.

On the positive side, a 1% increase in the literacy rate would generate 18-billion dollars in economic growth per year.  And investments in literacy programs have a 241 % return on investments.  

Encourage literacy in your home with some fun and simple activities.   Penny Brenton, the Futures and Babies’ Best Start Program Coordinator offers some ideas.

“When shopping with your children, do a Grocery Hunt.  Make a list with your child and let your child or children find all the items in the store.   It’s a fun way to include them in our shopping.    Or spice up meal time and have kids create a menu by drawing food items or using grocery store flyers.  Kids can take orders, too.”

This Saturday you’re invited to attend the Family Literacy Day event at the City Centre Mall just in front of the Wal-Mart doors.     There will be a number of activities taking place that will help to promote literacy, as Brenton shares with us.

“There will be several activities to choose from but, of course, you’re welcome to do them all.  There will be a bookmark making table, literacy craft and a book give away.  As well, we will have stories read by guest readers promoting literacy, singing songs, and a healthy snack will all be provided free of charge.  The Teddy Bear Clinic will also be happening so please make sure to bring your favorite stuffed animal so he or she can get checked out.”

Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created by ABC Life Literacy Canada in 1999 and held annually on January 27^th to raise awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.

In Thompson the Family Literacy Day events run from 1 to 2:30 p.m.   There’s no charge to attend.