Family Literacy Newsletter - May 2026

Literacy in Grand Erie

Welcome to our Family Literacy Newsletter.  We want to share information about reading development, reading instruction in Grand Erie, and ways you can support your developing readers at home. 

Our board is working towards the goal of increasing the overall reading proficiency of all students, with a focus on students in grades 1-3, as early intervention is key in preventing future reading difficulties. 



A child reading

Handwriting Instruction

The Ontario Ministry of Education released an updated Language curriculum in 2023 that highlights the importance of handwriting. Students begin learning to print letters and words in Grade 1, focusing on correct letter formation, size, placement, and spacing. In Grade 3, they start learning cursive writing, and by Grade 4, they begin developing fluent keyboarding skills. 

Even with increased access to technology, explicit handwriting instruction remains important.

Handwriting supports learning in many ways: 

  • When handwriting is slow or difficult, it can take away from a child’s ability to think about ideas, organize their writing, and use correct grammar. 
  • Handwriting is used across all subjects. Challenges with handwriting can make tasks like notetaking, tests, and classwork more difficult. 
  • When handwriting becomes automatic, students often feel more confident and motivated to write. 
  • Handwriting is connected to reading and spelling, helping to strengthen these important skills.

Supporting Handwriting Development

You can help your child build confidence with writing by making it part of everyday life: 

  • Encourage your child to practice writing letters, their name, the names of family members, and words that are meaningful to them. 
  • When you are writing (for example, notes, cards, or lists), talk about how you form letters. For example: “Grandma starts with a G. Watch how I start at the top, curve around, and then draw a straight line.” Seeing and hearing your thinking helps your child learn. 

You may also find these helpful: Letter Formation Cards 


Supporting Your More Advanced Writer

As your child’s skills grow, continue to create natural and fun opportunities to write: 

  • Invite your child to help with real-life writing tasks, such as making to-do lists, grocery lists, birthday cards, directions, or schedules. 
  • Encourage writing during play—for example, creating clues for a scavenger hunt or writing “prescriptions” while playing vet or doctor. 
  • Celebrate your child’s writing. Read their stories together, respond with notes of your own, and display their work at home. 

Family Literacy Resources

Literacy resources for families are available on the Grand Erie website.  Here you will find information about the skills necessary for skilled reading and activities you can do at home to support your child’s development of these skills. 

Check it out!