International Literacy Day (ILD) - 8 September

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrates International Literacy Day on September 8 every year. It calls attention to the need to eradicate illiteracy, one of UNESCO's primary concerns.

Since 1984 the Australian Literacy Educators' Association (ALEA) has presented the gift of a book to as many new babies as possible, born in Australia on International Literacy Day, September 8.

The distribution of new books for new babies on International Literacy Day is a practical demonstration of a commitment by the Australian Literacy Educators' Association, to help raise the standard of literacy in Australia. It heralds the importance of encouraging parents to share the joy of books, spoken language and literacy as early as possible with their baby.

ALEA celebrates parents as a child's first and most important teacher and recognises the essential role they play in the early development of their children's literacy. As well as talking and reading to young children, parents are encouraged to tell stories and be a role model by letting children join in, as they see adults read and write. Further, ALEA acknowledges the essential role parents play as part of the teaching and learning team, during their child's formative years of schooling.

ALEA produces a baby t-shirt with ‘Read to Me’ which is often presented to new parents.

See the AATE and ALEA bookstore for more details about the baby t-shirts and other items, or freecall the ALEA national office on 1800 248 379.

Enquiries about International Literacy Day activities in your area should be directed to your ALEA State Director or your Local Council President.