Burnaby, BC - The Institute for Cross-cultural Exchange (ICE) has donated an additional 4000 books in their continued commitment in support of Success By 6. This donation marks a four year relationship between ICE and Success By 6, resulting in thousands of books distributed throughout the province of BC.

"Early literacy skills are the foundation for future learning. The time from birth through age 8 is the most critical for children in acquiring the "building blocks" of literacy," states ICE. "Such early experiences help to determine brain structure which in turn shapes the way we learn, think, behave and respond to challenges for the rest of our lives."

"The books - in large format, with full-color illustrations - are published by Hoopoe and are based upon traditional stories from Central Asia and the Middle East. Told orally for many centuries, and known by Western psychologists as "Teaching Stories", these tales address universal themes such as overcoming difficulties, building self-esteem and finding peaceful solutions."

"Success By 6 is thankful for the continued support and generosity of ICE," says Kim Adamson, Provincial Manager for Success By 6. "The books have been well received throughout the communities. Literacy is an integral component in early child development, and we are fortunate to partner with ICE in providing quality books to families across BC."

About The Institute for Cross-cultural Exchange
Established in Calgary in 2004, The Institute for Cross-cultural Exchange (ICE) is dedicated to promoting literacy and cross-cultural education. Its current priority is to donate high quality illustrated books, featuring tales from the Middle East and Central Asia, to literacy programs serving Canadian children in need. To date ICE has donated close to 50,000 books in partnership with over seventy organizations across Canada. For more information visit www.iceeducation.org.

About Success By 6
Success By 6 in BC is a joint initiative of United Ways, Credit Unions, the BC Government through the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), and community leaders. The initiative is dedicated to ensuring that children ages 0 to 6 have access to programs and supports that help ensure healthy growth and development. Success By 6 builds community through engaging citizens in early childhood development and funding programs that include literacy, nutrition, children's play, parenting and family skills development. For more information visit www.successby6bc.ca or www.uwlm.ca.

Contact:
Kim Adamson, Provincial Manager
Success By 6 BC
Phone: (604) 294-8929
E-mail: kima@successby6bc.ca