September is National Literacy Month, and the Free Library of Philadelphia is making learning the alphabet fun and engaging for kids with a special program at the Philadelphia Zoo.
Throughout September, visitors to the zoo will be greeted by colorful posters showcasing the “Philly ABCs.” These posters highlight the city’s unique people, places, and things, such as “Dazzling Drumlines,” “Gregarious Gritty,” “Heaping Hoagies,” and “Wonderful Water Ice.”
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The posters are not only visually stimulating but also interactive, prompting kids to practice their alphabet skills. With activities like “I spy something that begins with the ‘ssss’ sound” and “Skip to the letters in your name,” children will be engaged and having fun while learning.
This initiative is part of Read by 4th, a program by the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation dedicated to promoting early literacy in the city. With over 70% of children in Philadelphia not reading at grade level by 4th grade, Read by 4th is working to change that statistic through various initiatives and outreach programs.
“Learning through play is at the core of the Philly ABCs,” said Simone Partridge, director of communications for Read by 4th. “By tapping into our city’s unique culture, we’ve created an alphabet that’s not just about letters but about Philly pride. It’s a meaningful way for families to explore the alphabet, starting with words they already know and love.”
The Philly ABCs campaign was launched last year and includes not only the zoo installation but also posters in 15 Philly playgrounds. Additionally, the campaign provides free literacy play kits and online resources for families to continue learning outside of the zoo.