Families Learning Together: A Family Literacy Program with Mi'kmaw Communities in Atlantic Canada

Abstract

This article presents research related to a Mi'kmaw family literacy program designed,developed, piloted, and implemented in the Atlantic Canadian Mi'kmaw communitiesof Lennox Island, Prince Edward Island; Pictou Landing; Afton; and Eskasoni, NovaScotia. Through consulation with these communities and their respected Elders, 10comprehensive, theme-based, culturally appropriate literacy modules were developed.From 2003 to 2006, approximately 31 families participated in the development andimplementation of this family literacy program. The results from the programs revealthat family literacy programs can positively affect children's reading success.Families and children evaluated the program positively.