A Victorian early childhood literacy program is seeking to tackle low literacy rates in Altona Meadows, Newport, Altona, Spotswood, Brooklyn, and Laverton by putting more books in the hands of preschool children.
During the next two weeks, the organisation Reading Out of Poverty Inc (ROOP), will be supplying preschools in lower socio-economic areas in Hobsons Bay with Christmas gifts of books and reading resources.
ROOP executive director Andrew Kay said the recent Naplan test results highlighted the depth of falling rates of reading, writing and numeracy in the area.
“We have identified parts of the region with lower literacy rates that would benefit from a program targeting preschool children,” Mr Kay said.
“Our research found that 61 per cent from low-income backgrounds didn’t own a single book. The goal is to improve literacy outcomes as they move through primary school and beyond,” he said.
Mr Kay said a child’s earliest years are crucial to their development and life chances, with learning to read especially important.
“It is essential for their future academic achievements and career, but even at preschool age, it ignites their imagination, sparks their curiosity, and broadens their understanding of the world around them.”
It’s estimated that in 2024, more than 185,000 five-year-olds in Australia started school without the necessary literacy, communication, and language skills, increasing their chances of struggling in secondary school and being unemployed by their 30s.
To donate to the ROOP Christmas Appeal, visit: www.roop.org.au
Cade Lucas
