This emerging area - new for both the literacy and medical fields - has grown out of the recognition that there is a significant overlap in the populations served and that better literacy skills can contribute to greater well-being.

need

• Individuals with low literacy skills are at risk of not being able to understand materials distributed by health care providers.
• Low birth weight is a condition that may increase a child's risk of developing health, learning, and behavioral problems.
• Children who are born at a low birth weight are more likely to be enrolled in special education classes, to repeat a grade, or to fail in school.

solution

• Family literacy programs provide parents with an opportunity to learn about child development, good health, and proper nutrition through parent support groups that enable them to discuss health issues with specialists.
• Partnerships between literacy and health providers are making a difference in low literate communities. Massachusetts is a leader in this effort and has had significant success with some of its programs.

All information obtained from the National Institute for Literacy at (202) 632-1500.

P.O. Box 1036 | Okemos, MI 48805 | (517) 349-7511

 mli@voyager.net - email

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