Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week 2023
By Jo Anne Malpass
Literacy Alliance of the Shuswap Society (LASS) has announced the return of in-person events for Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week, January 21 – 29, 2023.
The goal is to encourage families to unplug from technology and enjoy the freedom of play. In 2019 it had over 2500 people attend Unplug and Play events and LASS gave away more than 700 books. LASS is hoping 2023 will see a return of familiar events and the addition of some new ones, as well as increased family participation.
Sierre Allison, LASS Assistant Literacy Outreach Coordinator, said North and South Shuswap Community Resources (www.nsscr.ca) will be hosting an Unplug and Play Cooking Challenge for the third year. “There is always a lot of enthusiasm and creativity around this event (which does require pre-registration). The South Shuswap library is hosting a Reptile Show with the Bug Guys on Saturday January 28 from 1-2 pm and there is also a Friends of the Library Book Sale on Friday January 27 and Saturday January 28.”
Play Shuswap (playshuswap.com) is hosting a region wide scavenger hunt that families can do on their own and then submit photos to be entered for a grand prize.
“Anecdotally,” said Allison, “we are hearing that families are struggling to reign in screen time after the increased use during the pandemic. We are looking forward to offering over 50 Unplug and Play activities in communities throughout the North Okanagan - Shuswap, that will hopefully support families in reducing screen-time for the week of January 21 - 29. The schedule of events will be distributed through elementary schools again this year.”
The positive response to the call for event hosts exceeded expectations and LASS is delighted to see many new activities as well as the return of annual favourite such as magic shows, free family skates and story times.
LASS would like to thank all the businesses and organizations who are supporting Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week. Check shuswapliteracy.ca to see the full schedule of events and start planning a week of unplugged fun.
