SPRINGFIELD –– Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White is encouraging Illinois families to set aside time during the evening of Thursday, November 15th to read together as part of the Secretary of State's 10th annual Family Reading Night.
"Sharing your love of books and reading is one of the most precious gifts an adult can give a child," said White. "Reading regularly to children improves vocabulary and listening skills and enhances the bond between parent and child. Reading together strengthens the family unit and creates a positive environment for learning. Children from families who read together are better prepared for success in the classroom. The earlier we begin reading to children, the better the chances the child will develop a lifelong love for reading.
"Since 1992, the Secretary of State's office has worked in conjunction with libraries, schools, literacy programs, community organizations and others to sponsor Family Reading Night, as a way to celebrate the enormous benefits of family reading. I invite all families to celebrate Family Reading Night Thursday, November 15th and make reading together a family tradition."
White said the theme for Family Reading Night is "Read Together, Grow Together." Several million posters, bookmarks, stickers and other materials, in both English and Spanish, have been distributed to schools, libraries, literacy programs and other organizations throughout Illinois in an effort to promote Family Reading Night.
"Family Reading Night celebrations will take place across the state of Illinois," White said. "In previous years, participants have been wonderfully creative in celebrating this important event. Celebrants have held contests where children win prizes, and parades where children dress up as characters from popular books. Many grandparents participate in Family Reading Night.
"From the cradle to the grave, reading can educate, enlighten and enrich all of us. I commend all adults who take the time to read to children, and I look forward to another successful Family Reading Night November 15th."
