Family Literacy

This report indicates that family literacy programs are effective in improving the school readiness, academic abilities, and life skills of disadvantaged young children. Family literacy programs are based on the principle that the family is the most fundamental factor in influencing the lives and educational outcomes of children. In a successful family literacy program, all four of the components identified by the Kenan Trust Family Literacy model work together (i.e., interactive literacy activities, parent teacher training, parent literacy training, and age-appropriate education). Family literacy programs are based on evidence suggesting that a parent’s education level exerts a strong influence on both children’s school success and the family’s economic well-being. Family literacy programs are also based on evidence suggesting that parents’ participation in literacy activities with their children enhances children’s reading acquisition. When located in neighborhoods, high-quality family literacy programs draw on neighborhood strengths and reach families that otherwise may feel reluctant or unable to participate in program activities. Recommendations are offered to the Federal government, State and local governments, public/private partnerships, and foundations and non-profit organizations. Forty-three percent of adults were employed after participating in family literacy programs, compared with 14 percent prior to enrolling. Links to resources are listed that focus on a wide range of policy, practices, and research relevant to family literacy.