What is Parent Education? Beginning with Books Center for Early Literacy offers Raising Readers Parent Clubs that 1) help parents become more skillful and confident in reading to their children, 2) encourage daily reading aloud and regular library visits as a part of the family’s routine; and 3) stimulate children’s literacy development, thereby increasing the odds that they will become successful readers and learners.

How does it work? Parents meet weekly for eight weeks to discuss different literacy related topics, i.e., why it is good to read a book over and over again, how to make time for family reading in our electronic age, celebrating diversity, and what’s happening at the library. Also, during the session parents are able to discuss problems, successes, and ask questions that have arisen in connection with family reading. Parents receive a new, high-quality, children’s book at each session to take home and add to their home library. Many literacy activities are also suggested that parents can try at home with their child.
The Clubs take place at schools, community agencies, child care centers, libraries, and many other sites.

What are the benefits? Follow-up interviews indicate that reading increases substantially and is maintained by most families six months after club participation. Library use also increases, as does the purchase of children’s books. Among the benefits mentioned by parents completing the program are: parent-child communication, newfound pride in their children’s abilities, marked improvement in children’s attention spans and inquisitiveness, and great enthusiasm among all family members for sharing books and stories.

How can I learn more? Please contact Pam Little, Coordinator, Parent Education: Raising Readers Parent Clubs at 412-361-8560, ext. 304 or email Pam Little