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Tonya Papanikolas ReportingA Utah early literacy program is helping not only kids, but also their parents. The Motheread/Fatheread program helps at-risk families by building parenting and critical thinking skills while increasing reading levels.
Many studies show reading with your young child is one of the most important factors preparing them for school. But for immigrant and at-risk families, that can be a challenge.
Liliana Segura, Mother: "When I came here, I didn't speak English."
Rocio Velazquez, Mother: "We don't have too much reading in other, in our countries."
But a Utah literacy program aims to change that. The Motheread/Fatheread program helps prepare kids for school at the same time it helps improve a parent's literacy.
Pippa Keene, Motheread/Fatheread Program Coordinator: "The goal is to have the parent read to their child in whatever is their native tongue."
At 71 sites across the state, parents first get together for book discussion classes.
Kathy Furse, Granite Even Start East Coordinator: "They quickly get closer to each other, it's quite an emotional curriculum. They share a lot of personal things."
The parents are encouraged to read in English if they can, but it's also important to discuss the book in their own language so they feel comfortable. Then they get together with their children to read and talk about the book.
Rocio Velazquez: "I can read one phrase and Jennifer asks me questions, I ask her questions, and we share ideas."
Liliana Segura: "It's not only we share the book together, but we have the opportunity to share the emotional and physical close to her."
Pippa Keene: "It's the discussion that really bonds you with the child."
After a while, parents' reading levels increase and they can start crossing over into English.
Liliana Segura: "The last day, the last months, I am reading in English."
Meanwhile, the kids learn to love reading.
Carlos Velazquez: "It's interesting. You learn a lot of things."
These parents say it's become a great habit they then continue at home.
The Motheread/Fatheread program is funded in large part by PacifiCorp. Over 5,000 Utah families have benefited with programs at libraries, shelters, schools, prisons and treatment centers.
