Improving the implementation of an early literacy program by child health nurses through addressing local training and cultural needs

LA Hewer, D Whyatt - Contemporary Nurse, 2006 - Taylor & Francis
LA Hewer, D Whyatt
Contemporary Nurse, 2006Taylor & Francis
This study evaluates the implementation of an early literacy program by child health nurses
(CHNs) in Geraldton and the Midwest regions of Western Australia. Children's early
preschool exposure to reading is an important step in developing literacy skills in later
schooling. The program aims to improve early literacy development by supplying parents
with an appropriate book and information on reading to children at the child's seven-to-nine
months of age health check. This study highlights the potential role of CHNs in encouraging …
Abstract
This study evaluates the implementation of an early literacy program by child health nurses (CHNs) in Geraldton and the Midwest regions of Western Australia. Children’s early preschool exposure to reading is an important step in developing literacy skills in later schooling. The program aims to improve early literacy development by supplying parents with an appropriate book and information on reading to children at the child’s seven-to-nine months of age health check. This study highlights the potential role of CHNs in encouraging early literacy in regional communities. However, a barrier to the successful implementation of the program was found to be its dependence on attendance at a predetermined health check. This was especially so for the Aboriginal population, which had a significantly lower attendance rate. Dependence on personal and professional experience amongst CHNs also resulted in suboptimal implementation of the program. Recommendations to broaden the scope of the intervention, in timing and location, and to develop appropriate training for CHNs are discussed. It is shown that the implementation of such evidence-based programs must address local community and service provider issues to reach their full potential.
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