Programs & Services

The Centre for Family Literacy is the first of its kind in Alberta and Canada and is recognized for its innovative programs and services.

Family Literacy

Literacy weaves through all aspects of family and community life - through health, employment, education, social welfare, and justice. It is the foundation for all other learning. Family literacy programs focus on developing literacy within the family as a whole.

Family Literacy is not just about reading and writing. It's about developing stronger relationships between parents and their children and getting parents involved in their children's education. It is about building stronger families and healthy communities.

Parents who are involved in family literacy programs at the Centre are also improving their own literacy skills, while supporting the literacy development of their children. All family members benefit!

The Centre for Family Literacy provides a wide range of adult and family literacy programs in Edmonton, as well as training, resources, information and advocacy across the Province.

Strengthening Families Through Reading

Characteristics found in homes of children who read prior to entering first grade:

• Availability of numerous and diverse reading materials
• A special place where reading occurs
• Parents read to their children regularly
• Siblings play "school" often
• TV viewing is reduced to less than 10 hours per week

Parent behaviors found in connection with successful readers:

• Parents read books and other materials
• Parents take children to public events and displays as well as shopping
• Parents are willing to answer their child's questions