The Books for Babies family literacy programs aims to introduce children to the pleasure of books at a very young age. It is a joint effort of the Osoyoos Public Health Unit and South Okanagan Community Literacy Society. And, for the 11 year, Branch 173 of the Royal Canadian Legion is providing funding for the program. Pictured sitting are Craig Johnson and Alana Egli with their three-month old daughter Lainey Johnson. Behind, from left are: Terry Schorn who looks after charities and bursaries for the Legion, Head Librarian Georgia, Bruyel, Julia Bateman, assisting program director with the Open Door Group representing the literacy society and Lesley Hanson, public health nurse. (Richard McGuire photo)
Once again, Branch 173 of the Royal Canadian Legion donated $600 to fund the Books for Babies family literacy program.
This is the 11th year that the Osoyoos Legion has supported the family literacy program, which aims to provide the tools for parents to start the rewarding activity of reading to children.
Based on the belief that the early childhood years – ages newborn to five – are critical for brain and language development, the program supports parents in becoming the most effective “first” teachers of their children.
Working through the Osoyoos Public Health Unit, and using the Legion’s donation, the South Okanagan Community Literacy Society provides parents of newborns with a reading kit.
The canvas bags contain an age-appropriate board book and a picture book for siblings or for when the baby reaches the next level, along with information on ways to foster and support emerging literacy development.
Receiving a kit last week at the Osoyoos library branch was Lainey Johnson, three months old, and the daughter of Alana Egli and Craig Johnson.
The South Okanagan Community Literacy Society can be reached at 250-498-8433.
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