Family Literacy
Family Literacy Program
TLA’s Family Literacy Program is an opportunity for parents and children to learn together. Family Literacy refers to a continuum of services that address literacy needs; it sets the foundation for families who seek to improve their educational and economic opportunities and expand pathways for multigenerational learning. Research shows children who engage in early literacy activities at home are better prepared for school and have higher rates of success in school. The program is comprised of four components: Adult Education, Children’s Education, Parent Time, and Parents and Children Learning Together.
Adult Education
Consists of classes which support parenting adults in achieving their education and/or workforce goals, including Adult Basic Education or English as a Second Language classes.
Children's Education
Supports academic growth, social-emotional learning, and physical development. Children participate in a structured curriculum which includes listening to stories, drawing/writing, pretend play, music and movement and more.
Parent Time
Focuses on providing parents with the resources they need to support their children as they grow and is based on individual goals for their families. TLA provides classes where parents learn about the importance of reading to their children; how to communicate with their child’s teacher at school; what community resources are available to them like the library; and how to navigate issues like safety, nutrition, and health.
PACT Time (Parents and Children Learning Together)
Consists of time for parents and their children to participate in activities together. Parents and children take part in special programs at TLA during the year such as holiday celebrations; parents learn about opportunities and are encouraged to spend time together with their children at events such as festivals or family-friendly recreational activities in the community like exploring museums, the county parks, or the Aquarium. In addition, they learn about how they can share learning experiences at home on a daily basis.
All Trident Literacy Association participants with children ages 0-8 may participate! For more information, contact Caroline McKinney, Family Literacy Coordinator, at cmckinney@tridentlit.org. Please note the children's education component provided by TLA is limited to children between the ages of 18 months and four years and the space available in the Zucker Child Development Center. We are always happy to work with your child's caretaker or school if they can't participate in TLA-provided children's education.