In Pennsylvania, teachers are promoting family literacy by making house calls.
I do realize that school is out, or nearly out, for U.S. teachers this summer, but what a fantastic concept to think about for the future – one that could be easily adopted by libraries, school districts, or civic groups.
The program known as Teachers Enrich a Child’s Home through reading, or TEACH, began this year at Highland Park Elementary School in Pennsylvania.
Thirty-six teacher-volunteers went into the homes of first-grade students because they felt that this age group was more enthusiastic about learning to read.
First-grade teacher Maureen Cleale, of Yardley said, “The younger you start, then the better reader they’ll become. We want them to start early because reading is a lifelong skill.”
Each teacher delivered children a book bag, three books, and a stuffed animal to keep. The items were donated by the local Rotary Club, along with pamphlets about reading in the home for parents and an application for a library card.
While in the home, the teacher reads a story to the entire family and, if possible, encourages parent involvement. The goal is to get the entire family to read together every day.
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