Effective Engagement In Family Literacy

Introduction: Family literacy programmes bring together families, schools and communities to collaboratively support children’s literacy and numeracy development. In areas of socio-economic disadvantage engagement is often considered challenging. Engagement in family literacy programmes could be a vital precondition for improving life outcomes for children and their families.

Goals and Methods: This research aimed  to develop a theory of effective parental engagement by exploring the diverse perspectives of both parents and practitioners regarding strategies used in a socio-economically disadvantaged area. A qualitative approach was chosen for its ability to offer rich, contextual insights into lived experiences and complex social dynamics—insights that quantitative methods alone cannot capture. Using Constructivist Grounded Theory, this study identifies key concepts and constructs a theoretical framework that defines family literacy and elaborates on the multifaceted nature of parental engagement, including its benefits and challenges. Data excerpts from 8 focus groups with 34 participants illustrate how a partnership-based model of service delivery can empower families and enhance outcomes for children. Central to this process is the integration of participants’ perspectives and experiences, allowing theory to emerge through ongoing, iterative data collection and the co-construction of meaning with parents and practitioners.

Results: This study incorporated both parent and practitioner perspectives to build a grounded theory of effective parental engagement titled  “the Dance of Engagement” . This theory encourages a shift from viewing engagement as solely the parents’ responsibility to recognising a shared responsibility between parents and practitioners. The theory describes to practitioners  ‘how to’ effectively engage parents in family literacy programmes in a collaborative practice.

Conclusions: The Dance of Engagement underscores the importance of collaboration for educators in shaping inclusive, responsive literacy practices. It outlines the core elements that contribute to meaningful engagement and provides a structured, evidence-based framework for understanding and fostering effective family involvement through qualitative methods.