Family literacy refers to a continuum of programs that addresses the intergenerational nature of literacy. The essence of family literacy is that parents are supported as the first teachers of their children.
Programs work with individuals as well as with the family unit.
While family literacy programs provide developmental experiences for young children, their parents are offered instruction in parenting skills and parental support to change patterns of family interaction. Some programs build the literacy skills of parents and extend learning opportunities to include pre-employment and employment skills. Instructional approaches are modified appropriately to respond to the variety of cultures within each program. Family literacy programs vary from one community to another as each program works to meet the needs of the participants and the community as well. Participants in family literacy programs usually include children, single parents, or another close family member.