The Province of British Columbia has officially proclaimed Family Literacy Week as January 26 to February 2, 2025, an annual campaign celebrating the vital role of literacy for families of all configurations.
This week-long event includes the nationally recognized Family Literacy Day, held every year on January 27, and organized by ABC Life Literacy Canada. This year’s theme, “Learn to Be Green, Together”, encourages families to embrace eco-friendly habits while strengthening connections and learning together.
Bowen Island is definitely getting into the act, with the Bowen Island Literacy Task Group (BILTG) coordinating a number of earth-friendly events, inviting Islanders of all ages to celebrate throughout Family Literacy Week.
Pick up a beautifully illustrated colouring sheet, created by local artist Eleanor Rosenberg, to learn about the fascinating path of electricity. These colouring sheets will be available from January 27 onward at several locations, including the Bowen Island Public Library, the Hearth, Arts on Bowen, the Bowen Island Museum and Archives, Bowen Island Children’s Centre and the Bowen Island Health Centre.
For those eager to engage in eco-themed fun, the Bowen Island Public Library has prepared a “Green Family Bingo” activity. Families can challenge themselves to check off as many eco-friendly activities as possible from the bingo sheet while enjoying time together. Additionally, nature enthusiasts can take part in a Critter Scavenger Hunt, also hosted by the Bowen Library, where participants explore and learn more about the local environment.
On Monday, January 27, the Bowen Island Children’s Centre and Family Place will host an exciting lineup of events. “Raven Speaks”, focusing on traditional Indigenous wisdom teachings, gets underway at 10 am, running until Noon. Sessions will be led by First Nation artist and storyteller Simon James, who will share tales and lead an art-based project. To round off the morning, participants will enjoy a traditional First Nations snack.
From 1 to 2:30 pm families are invited to tune in for a screening of selected episodes of the award-winning animated TV series Raven Tales. This is an opportunity for children and adults of all ages to experience Indigenous storytelling in an engaging, modern format. Please note that this event is not a drop-off program; children must be accompanied by an adult.
On Sunday, February 2, at 10:30 am the week’s celebrations will conclude with a guided tour of the newly acquired Cape Roger Curtis conservation area. In collaboration with the Bowen Island Conservancy, attendees will join Owen Plowman for an exclusive exploration of this remarkable natural landscape. The tour offers an inside look into the ecological significance of the site, which was recently secured to ensure its preservation for future generations. Spaces for this tour are limited, and registration is required to participate. To register, please email [email protected]
The Bowen Island Literacy Task Group is a coalition of representatives of key community groups, including the Bowen Island Public Library, Bowen Children’s Centre, Bowen Island Community School, Bowen Island Community Recreation, Bowen Island Community Health Centre, The Hearth, Arts on Bowen, and Bowen Island Museum and Archives.
The BILTG is dedicated to promoting literacy and fostering education on Bowen Island. It is appreciative of and acknowledges the support of Decoda Literacy Solutions, who provide funding to support local initiatives. For more information, please contact [email protected]
