B. Family Literacy Models in Alberta

It's important to note that this list of models and the programs listed in Appendix A are by no means definitive. We have documented as many as we could identify and gather information on, however the number of programs changes constantly as practitioners plan and train for incorporating family literacy into their programs. Numbers also change as projects close due to lack of funds, or to other challenges.

At this point in Alberta, there are five distinct types of family literacy programs in operation, as well as numerous family literacy initiatives and promotions. They're described here as examples of the range of programming in the province, and often as the model used or adapted by other programs.

Homespun

The most well-known of family literacy programs in Alberta is the Homespun Family Literacy Project, developed at Brooks Campus of Medicine Hat College. Homespun officially began in January 1991 with the mandate of reaching at-risk families and providing parents with instruction on how to read with their children and how to encourage a supportive literacy environment in the home.

Homespun began with a model developed in Raleigh, North Carolina called Motheread. In the Motheread program mothers met once or twice weekly to share children's literature centred on a particular child development theme. The Homespun instructor/coordinator received curriculum and training from the Motheread headquarters.

Modifications to the Motheread model to more truly reflect our population and to include Canadian content led to the evolution of the new model. Homespun. Three primary components make up Homespun's curriculum: 1) a focus on children's literature as well as extended discussion about the book and activities related to the story, 2) opportunities for parents to explore ideas on encouraging an environment in the home that is conducive to literacy development through readings, discussion, videos, and instruction, and 3) exploration and development of the parent's own literacy abilities, beliefs, and attitudes through personal journals, writing for children and discussing adult readings.

Homespun sessions run for 15 weeks, with evening or daytime workshops offered for 2 hours each week. There are an average of 10 parents in each workshop. In addition to regular classes, Homespun has a volunteer in-home program for parents who can't come to class.