The Debbie Zimmerman Early Years Niagara Literary Award Committee (DZEYNLA) has established a unique award for children's literature aimed at the 0-6 age group.
This award is named for Debbie Zimmerman, at the end of her service as Regional Chair of the Niagara Region, to continue her legacy by:
- highlighting the importance of the youngest citizens in Niagara;
- encouraging early reading with children from infancy to age six;
- helping parents choose the right books for children from infancy to age six; and
- celebrating children's authors.
A review of existing awards for excellence in children's literature showed that none existed in Canada for infants to age six. This award aims to draw attention not only to the value of reading with children in their early years when their brains are at peak development, but also to the need for quality books for this age group.
As Regional Chair from 1998 to 2003, Debbie Zimmerman championed the importance of the early years of a child's life leading to the establishment of the Early Years Action Group - Niagara Region. The focus of this group is to ensure that all children from infancy to age six are given opportunities to develop to their full potential. The health, emotional intelligence, social competencies and learning ability of a human being begins in the early years and lasts a lifetime.
Five outstanding books were shortlisted by the Selection Committee for the 2007 award. Families were encouraged to read these books together before voting online or by paper ballot at public libraries, Ontario Early Years Centres, and regional child care centres.
In partnership with the Touch a Truck fundraiser for children's literacy, over 600 copies of the award-winning books have been provided to Ontario Early Years Centres, licensed child care centres, pediatrician's offices, and other sites where families and childen gather.
2007 Information Package
2007 Award-Winning Title: Not a Box
2007 Shortlist
Fact Sheet
Top Titles for Children under Six
Definitions and Selection Criteria
Guidelines for Choosing Books for Children
2006
2006 Award-Winning Title: Llama Llama Red Pajama
2006 Shortlist
Top Titles for Children under Six
2005
2005 Award-Winning Title: Knuffle Bunny
2005 Shortlist
Top Titles for Children under Six
