0.3 Family literacy in a caribbean context--some critical issues

This module targets teachers and interested adults. Our students and visitors can visit our Links to Literacy page/links section to read the sites that are listed in order to understand some terms and concepts in the field. Read esp. Gadsden on "Current areas of interest in Family Literacy".

• Definition of Family Literacy
• Family Structure--roles and relations
• The role of parents especially fathers
• Models of Family Literacy Programmes and why a programme of Family Literacy is important--A CULTURAL APPROACH

There is a plethora of family literacy programs in the United States and Canada and some of these have been in existence for two decades or more. They cater for diverse populations--mainly those in the lower socioeconomic bracket. Here in Trinidad and Tobago there is a call once more for attention to be paid to Literacy teaching and learning especially among school age young people. There are plans on the gov't's drawing board for a national literacy policy. Some consideration in this should be given to developing a family literacy program (since I know of none that is in existence at the present time). This should be an adequate complement to the recently developed (new) Early Childhood program. The development and operation of successful Family Literacy programs in the U.S. and Canada can serve as a guide. The most important theme though, should be the unique cultures and Language experience of Caribbean peoples.

*A Note on Family Structure:

Caribbean families come in many shapes, sizes and hues (ethnicity). In Trinidad and Tobago, the predominant ethnic groups are Indo and African descended peoples whose family patterns and structures have been shaped by the social history of the region. Where some Indian families may have a more "stable" family structure, many African descended families are more matriarchical (female-headed). Among the lower socioeconomic groups they are further characterized by the absence of fathers. No doubt this can impact negatively on Literacy practices in home and community. It is one of the MAIN ISSUES that educators and policy makers must address in devising any programs for Literacy and families.

Definition of Family Literacy:

A definition of family literacy may include the ways in which parents,and children form relationships around sharing the reading and writing of texts at home as well as "children's acquisition of knowledge about the conventions and purposes of print and the uses of Language in culturally organized activities." (Wasik, 2001 cited in Gadsden, 2004) . It is also related to the Literacy training of parents where this could lead to a better economic position and improved self sufficiency.