The Curtoglen Literacy Centre is operated by a group of volunteers. It's main purpose is to help parents learn more about early literacy development. Space is provided for parents and preschool children to come together to engage and interact in literacy related activities.

This is the first time writing to all of you who enjoy, as much as we do, reading the Notepad. We thought it would be a great idea to share with you some of the things which happened last year, 1998 - 99, through the support of the Curtoglen Literacy Centre Committee, Literacy Development Council, National Literacy Secretariat, Bonne Bay Academy, and community members of Bonne Bay South.

First of all, a number of projects and programs were implemented for preschoolers and parents at our centre called Booky the Bears Playroom (this is much easier for kids to say then , "Curtoglen Literacy Centre").

Some of those projects and programs included: an interactive and emergent reading program titled Little Books, story time, a playdough centre, a learning centre (store), crafts, Explorations (an interactive session for parents and children in the context of literacy-related activities and games), and a visitor's day each month.

Secondly, the PRINTS program was offered to 5 parents of preschool-aged children. PRINTS was enjoyed thoroughly by all! Parents reported learning a great deal from the program but they were just as excited about the opportunities to chat and share. Additionally, the Curtoglen Literacy Centre in partnership with the school, Bonne Bay Academy , received a grant from the National Literacy Secretariat to offer Positive Reading Practice to parents and their primary aged children. This also received positive feedback from all participants. Finally, the Literacy Centre was able to offer a Kindergarten Early Intervention Reading Program.

This program was put together based upon two primary sources: Joan Oldford-Matchin's (MUN) SORT project and Sheila Walsh's (Speech and Language Pathologist, District #3) phonological awareness program. Many other activities took place throughout the year but the above 4 projects serve as an umbrella for the others. As you can see, 1998-99 was a busy year.

If you would like further information on any of the above projects or programs, please contact us! We would also like to hear from other groups who are involved in similar activities. It is always interesting to hear what others are doing to foster literacy development at the community level. We believe strongly in the fact that parents are their children's first teachers!

On September 22, 1999, The Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador launched it's Information Access Logo at a ceremony in St. John's. This logo, which was designed by the Newfoundland Teacher's Association, incorporates the Council logo and our 1-800 telephone number. It will be produced on various products (ie. posters, fridge magnets, etc.).

These products will be distributed throughout the province and be visible in both the community setting and the home.

The Council hopes that the general public will use the logo as a medium to call to obtain information on reading, writing and literacy programs. Often times people who want to access such programs do not know where they are available. Council hopes this logo will assist learners and their families in finding out where they can get help.