National contest will see lucky Canadian family get exclusive visit from author Robert Munsch

(12-Sep-2005) Beloved Canadian children's author Robert Munsch will make a special visit to one lucky Canadian family this January, thanks to a contest announced today by ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation.

Robert Munsch is honorary chair of ABC CANADA Family Literacy Day, held January 27, which encourages parents and their children to read and learn together, and this contest gives any family in the country the chance to have him visit their own Family Literacy Day (FLD) party on the Monday (January 23) to kick off a week of FLD activities.

Parkland Teachers' Local 10 has for the past two years facilitated FLD activities for teachers and support staff by facilitating teacher-led workshops, distributing materials including brochures, teaching guides, parent guides, student masters, prizes and videos.

"I can't wait to find out where I'll be going, and with what family and friends I'll be celebrating Family Literacy Day," said Munsch.

To enter the contest, families only need to fill out a form, describing what activities they are planning for their FLD party. Entry forms are available on the ABC CANADA website, www.abc-canada.org, and must be received by ABC CANADA by 5:00 p.m. EST, December 9, 2005.

The contest winner will be announced the first week of January, 2006.

"Robert's been a wonderful honorary chair for us, and there's nothing he likes better than to share stories with children and their parents," says Christine Featherstone, ABC CANADA President and CEO. "This contest provides a unique opportunity for a family and their friends to meet Robert face-to-face."

Family entries (one entry per family) will be judged for the originality and creativity of the activities they plan to have during their Family Literacy Day party.

Parkland Teachers' Local 10 encourages its members to forward this information their students and their families. Meet the teacher nights, classroom newsletters, and student agenda are some suggestions to get the information to our communities.

For more details, and for entry forms, the public can visit the website: www.abc-canada.org, or contact ABC CANADA at: 416-442-2998 or 1-800-303-1004; info@abc-canada.org.