Unlocking literacy: The power of parents and cultural heritage

Boateng, Felicia; Ebubedike, Margaret; Addae-Kyeremeh, Eric; Akyeampong, Kwame; Doka, Jane and Dery, Portia (2025). Unlocking literacy: The power of parents and cultural heritage. UKFIET.

Abstract

The Power of Parents' study, conducted in Ghana and Nigeria, highlights the crucial role of parents and cultural heritage in children's literacy development. Traditional activities like storytelling, folk songs, and games naturally enhance literacy skills, even among parents with little formal education. However, these cultural practices are rarely integrated into formal schooling. To bridge this gap, the study recommends recognising parental contributions, organising literacy workshops, fostering home-school collaboration, and developing culturally relevant resources. By valuing informal learning, parents can be empowered as key partners in education, ultimately improving children's literacy outcomes.

Plain Language Summary

Parents and cultural traditions play a crucial role in helping children develop literacy skills, even before they enter school. In communities across Sub-Saharan Africa, storytelling, singing, and traditional games support early reading and writing, yet these contributions are often overlooked. Our study highlights how parents, even those with little formal education, naturally teach their children through cultural practices. There is the need to leverage on these cultural heritage to promote children's literacy.

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