Family Literacy

At Words Alive, we know that young readers grow on the laps of their parents and caregivers. Yet, research tells us that parents from underserved communities are far less likely to have access to parent education programs that support a working knowledge of literacy development and the skills that promote positive reading habits at home. For that reason, we bring our Family Literacy Program to the community, inspiring parents to make exploring books a robust family habit! 

Let's Read Together

In our Family Literacy Program, we aim to empower parents as agents of change and advocates for their families by meeting parents where they are and giving them the "ah-ha!" moments that lead to deeper engagement with their children. Parents in the program attend seven workshops, receiving approximately ten hours of parent education covering early literacy development topics specific to preschool age children. Grounded in the power of play, each workshop includes a tailored information session and skill-building exercises for parents, a group story time, and guided activities for parents and children. 

Here are a few promising outcomes from our pilot

  • 29% increase in the positive literacy behaviors in the home environment following the literacy workshops

  • 44% increase in children’s requests to be read to

  • 45% increase in parent awareness of the importance of reading to their child