Appendix A

Sample Information Sheet for Potential Partners

What is family literacy?

Family literacy is a relatively new approach to literacy development. The goal is to prevent the cycle of intergenerational problems of low literacy, by building on the strengths of the family and their existing uses of literacy.

Family literacy programs are based on the research that has been conducted over the past forty years on emergent literacy development, which shows that a child's literacy development begins at birth, and that the parents/caregivers are the child's first and most important teacher. For example, children who are raised in homes where literacy activities regularly take place, and where they are read to frequently and have access to reading and writing materials, develop greater facility with literacy activities than children who do not have the same opportunities (International Reading Association).

Why is family literacy important here?

We believe that a family literacy program is needed here in our community. Statistics Canada figures from 1989 show that nearly one in every three Canadians has difficulty with everyday reading tasks. Other findings from the study show that parents' education levels is a significant factor in Albertans' literacy levels. When you consider that our local volunteer tutor bank currently has twenty-five people on its waiting list, and that the adult basic education program turned away over sixty people this semester, it becomes apparent that those statistics do not just apply "out there" somewhere, but that they describe people right here at home. And what about their children? Will they finish high school? Will we see them entering the ABE program in twenty or thirty years time? All parents want what is best for their children, but often lack the skills, awareness, or confidence they need to support their child's development. Being involved in a family literacy program can assist them in that role.

Working in partnership

Family literacy is not just about reading and writing. It is about developing stronger relationships between parents and their children. It is about getting parents involved in their children's education. It is about building stronger families and healthier communities. We know now that the issues and challenges families face are multifaceted and complex, and we also know that we need to work together to address those issues. Your agency has expertise and insights that we need to plan and develop a family literacy project for our community. By working in partnership, we can reach those families that most need the support, and help each other deliver more effective, efficient services at the same time.

Possible program type

We have been researching different types of family literacy programs. Based on our understanding of the needs in our community, and the services that exist already, one model in particular seems appropriate and realistic. (Description of program.) For more information, please call the Anytown Community Organization at 000-0000.