Literacy and Fathers

With Father’s Day celebrated only last weekend and the holidays just around the corner, it is an ideal time to focus on how dads can help develop their children’s literacy. Research shows that dads play a critical role in their children's literacy development and levels of academic performance – by modelling reading, sharing stories, exploring the world together and engaging in meaningful conversations that build critical thinking skills. Boys in particular respond to positive modelling by older males. Following is some helpful information from Reading Rockets.

What should I read?

Children will respond to your enthusiasm. You can select age appropriate nonfiction (books about famous people, places, or how things work) or fiction. The important part is that you are enthusiastic about the book. Read slowly, talk about what you read.

What if I’m not with my child every day?

If you don’t see your child each day, try arranging a regular time to read books over the phone, or create your own podcast! Your child will look forward to this individual time with you and you will also be modelling behaviour that will keep your child on a path toward improved levels of learning.

What if I don’t like reading?

Even if you’re not a reader yourself, research has shown that your participation in literacy activities at home can have a profound impact on your child’s academic achievement. Here are some other simple ways to incorporate literacy into your everyday routine with your child.

• Tell stories about when you were young.
• Recite nursery rhymes or jingles.
• Read environmental print (road signs or brand names on food containers etc).
• Ask your child about their day. Conversation with adults helps children learn new words and practice creating a narrative – both linked to better reading skills.
• Check out books of photography or art and talk about the pictures.
• When you are doing household projects, describe what you are doing to your child.
• Involve your child in everyday writing tasks like shopping lists or paying bills.
• Create games that use letters, words or problem solving.

Walk the walk

Your child learns from what you do. Make sure the messages you are sending about reading reinforce that knowledge and literacy are valuable, achievable and powerful.

For more information on reading with your child, visit: www.ReadingRockets.org/article/c442/.