Time to put literacy first

The key to improving literacy levels in First Nation youth is starting early.
Sharla Peltier, a speech language pathologist who works fora school board in Sudbury, shared this information during the inaugural Inspiring Language, Literacy and Learning Among First Nation Children conference in Thunder Bay Sept. 30-Oct. 1.
“You need to focus on the early childhood years from toddlers up to six years old,” she said.
It is important to see the needs of the youth and recognize if there are any possible issues forming.
She said there will be cues if a child is having problems with speech, language, hearing and non-verbal communication.
And it’s important to work with First Nations youth in a culturally appropriate way.
“Pay attention to the values, goals and hopes of the child and family,” said Jessica Ball, of the University of Victoria’s School of Child and Youth Care.
Added Martha McClelland, chairwoman of the conference’s organizing team and a speech language pathologist with the Thunder Bay Health Unit: “The certain norms and guidelines can’t apply for everyone. We have to recognize the oral language storytelling instead of books in some cases.”
McClelland was thrilled to be able to bring in Peltier and Ball to present.
“We want people with passion and expertise in their fields,” McClelland said. “These are the people who can equip our participants with the tools they need to work with youth in their own communities.”
Participants totalled 135 for the conference, the first of its kind, McClelland said.
They included teachers, resource teachers, early childhood educators and development workers from across the province including Long Lake #58 and Ginoogaming.