International Mother Language Day 2026

Join us to celebrate International Mother Language Day 2026!

On Monday 23rd February at 6-8 pm, the Centre for Literacy and Multilingualism (CeLM) at the University of Reading will be hosting a public event celebrating language and communication in all its rich and diverse forms. This in-person event is free to attend and is for anyone interested in language(s) and how we communicate, both with and without speech.

The evening will feature:

Research showcase: Presentation on CeLM's current projects exploring multilingualism and family language policy in Reading.

Clinic showcase: Presentation highlighting the work of Reading University’s speech and language therapy clinic and support for multilingual individuals with communication disabilities.

Showcase on sign language and alternative forms of communication: Staff explaining richness and diversity of languages beyond oral modality such as sign languages, alternative and augmentative communication.

Interactive session: Hands-on activities and poster displays on multilingualism and multi-modal communication with short talks from experts and interactive discussions, you will have an opportunity to learn more about multilingualism - including alternative forms of communication – in the context of our local community and the research we undertake in CeLM. Find out how the University’s Speech and Language Therapy Clinic works with different language populations, learn more about people who communicate through sign language, and try some alternative forms of communication (picture boards and speech generating devices) for yourself.

Professor Christos Pliatsikas, Director of CeLM, welcomes this event stating that “The University of Reading and CeLM conduct some incredible work on language and communication, which is of great relevance to our local communities in Reading. This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase this work, demonstrate how it benefits the community, but also for us to hear from the members of the community about their needs and concerns” This event is relevant for everyone—teachers, educators, families, parents, language enthusiasts, or if you simply love Reading and its rich and vibrant linguistic community. Come join us! We will be in Building L22, room G01, of the London Road Campus from 6-8pm. Please note this is only an in-person event. To find out more and to register for the event, please complete the registration form