There’s a lot going on in the life of a young child. Cognitive development. Social and emotional development. Fine and gross motor development. Language development. These are some of the domains of early childhood development.
Many parents only learn of these domains when they bring their child to see the nurse for an immunization, or a checkup. They may be discussed during parenting programs offered by a prenatal program, at an Aboriginal Head Start program, or at a family resource or child development centre.
It can be overwhelming to parents. Am I doing enough? How can I help my child to maximize their potential? In small communities, there may be few programs for children and young families. But there is one type of program that can sometimes be overlooked - family literacy!
Family literacy programs bring together parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and children in a fun environment to learn and play together. Sometimes the programs are formal, such as 1-2-3 Rhyme with Me, or Little Chefs, and are offered for a defined time. In other cases, they are informal drop-in programs to celebrate a special event (eg. family literacy fun nights). Whatever the type, family literacy programs offer families and communities a chance to spend time and learn together.
We know that family literacy programs build stronger families, and ensure greater school success and better health and overall wellbeing. It may all look like fun and games but these programs are designed to aid in all facets of child development.
As National Family Literacy Day on January 27, 2015 draws closer, look for a Family Literacy program in your community, or organize one yourself. Our theme this year is play and learn anytime, anywhere! For further information on existing programs, prizes or how to set up your own program, please contact me at the NWT Literacy Council at 1-866-599-6758.
-- Kathryn Barry Paddock
