Abstract
Brief Literature Review
Poor families, unlike their middle-class counterparts, are likely to lack resources associated with knowledge acquisition regarding early literacy (Duncan & Brooks-Gunn, 1997). The prime resources for learning are books and reading materials such as newspapers and magazines. Children whose homes are filled with books and whose parents read to them have higher levels of reading skills and knowledge when they enter kindergarten than those who do not have such literacy experiences (Livingston & Wirt, 2003; Brizius & Foster, 1993; Dickinson & Snow, 1987).
Statement of Purpose
Both home and school environment, play an important role in language and literacy development. "Educators [who].address low-academic achievement of low income English Language Learning (ELL) preschool children ...often overlook one key consideration: culture" (Pena, 1999, p 166) before making home literacy the idea remedy. The Head Start program serves families of low-income. The purpose of this study analyzes the effects of family literacy programs on parenting knowledge of Latino immigrant and US born, low-income families and whether there are variables that influence its effectiveness.
Methodology
A mixed methods approach, using quantitative and qualitative measures was used to collect data. This study compares gains in parent knowledge after receiving training in family literacy for five months. Hypothesis testing occurred by applying required attendance for one group and no attendance requirement in another group. The ecological model (Bronfenbrenner, 1979, 1986) was used to inform the study and aids in the development of the Family Literacy Program.
Conclusions and Recommendations
This study supports the use of a family literacy program for low-income Latino preschool children and their families. With a small sample, representing a specific group and only immediate, short term gains within the five month investigation; further studies to examine gains at the individual level may contribute to increased understanding of the effects. Families benefit from family literacy programs with families learning to value education and families becoming more involved in school. The family's involvement in schools leads to better achievement for children.