Words Alive Family Literacy Program

Program Overview

We know that young readers grow on the laps of their parents and caregivers, and for that reason our Family Literacy Program works to inspire parents to make exploring books a robust family habit! In our 7-week program, we aim to empower parents as agents of change and advocates for their families by meeting parents where they are and giving them the "ah-ha!" moments that lead to deeper learning engagement with their children.

Parents in the program attend seven workshops, receiving approximately ten hours of parent education covering early literacy development topics specific to preschool age children. Each workshop includes a tailored information session and skill-building exercises for parents, a group story time, and guided activities for parents and children. The program is provided in both English and Spanish.

During the 2020-21 program year, 573 families (representing 1,290 children and adults) across San Diego and Orange County participated, averaging 10.5 hours of shared learning time and taking home 4,793 books to keep.