National Adult Literacy Database

A Methodological Report and Time Series Analysis

Authors: Cameron N. McIntosh, Dafna E. Kohen

This paper outlines both the methodology used by the authors to develop a statistical measure to estimate how ready for school Canadian preschoolers are, and the information gained through the analysis of relevant statistics from the provinces for the years 1998, 2000, 2002, and 2004.

Based on information from the Canadian National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY), the authors developed a measure based on verbal ability combined with social and emotional development.

Further analysis showed differences in school readiness both within a particular year and over time, with several provinces being at the national average in one year, then either moving above or falling below that average at other points in the longitudinal study.

The authors say that their methodology offers a solid basis for developing national indexes from survey data. A crucial next step will be to address gaps in the information about school readiness by exploring other nationwide longitudinal sets of data that contain a broader range of variables and school outcomes for a given cohort of students.

Funders:

• Canadian Council on Learning (CCL)

Added: 2013-03-13

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See also:

• Élaboration d'un indice de préparation à l'école des enfants canadiens d'âge préscolaire

An Exploration of Content and Style

Authors: Kate Nonesuch

In this literature review, the author outlines the relationship of family math and family literacy, explores the importance of play in developing early skills, and traces the mathematical development of early childhood. She reviews several large and small scale family math programs, and discusses common findings as to what makes these programs successful. Finally, she notes some of the homework advice available to parents, in the context of home-school relationships. Except where noted, the examples reflect the experiences of the author.

Added: 2009-04-28

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Lessons in Learning – September 18, 2008

Series: Lessons in Learning

Authors: Canadian Council on Learning (CCL)

Parents, teachers, and decision-makers all have a stake in ensuring that children are well-prepared when they begin their formal education. However, the authors of this document note that the meaning of the term “ready to learn” is not as clear as it might first appear.

With support from the Canadian Council on Learning (CCL), researchers at Statistics Canada undertook the development of a school-readiness index for Canadian pre-schoolers. Their research pointed to two factors that have a direct effect on school outcomes: social/emotional development, and verbal ability and attitude toward learning.

The authors offer a number of suggestions to help parents and caregivers prepare children for school, including developing children’s verbal abilities through stories, nursery rhymes, and conversation; encouraging curiosity and effort; and serving as positive role models for social and emotional responses.

Added: 2012-06-20

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See also:

• Prêt à apprendre? Coup d'œil sur la préparation à l'école des jeunes enfants