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Focus
On…New Developments in Family Literacy 
Federal and provincial governments have joined together to develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy to improve the well- being of children. Children’s issues were identified as priority at a First Ministers Conference in June, 1996, and responsibility for a National Children’s Agenda was given to the Federal-Provincial- Territorial Council of Ministers on Social Policy Renewal. The National Children’s Agenda (NCA) is led by governments but is intended to include communities, voluntary groups, employers and the general public. The NCA supports the critical and primary role that parents, families and the community play in the lives of children. The Council has now released a discussion paper called, A National Children’s Agenda: Developing a Shared Vision, to launch a national discussion about what we, as a society, want for our children. Another NCA paper, called Measuring Child Well-being and Monitoring Progress, explores ways in which people and governments can measure the progress of our children and share effective practices. The NCA has developed four goals that reflect the emerging common ground among those interested in child development. Good Health: Raising children who are as physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy as they can be, with strong self-esteem, coping skills and enthusiasm Safety and Security: Meeting children’s basic needs (food, shelter, clothing and transportation), protecting children from abuse, neglect, discrimination, and exploitation, and providing support from caring adults Success at Learning: Creating opportunities for children to reach their potential for physical and social development, language skills, literacy, numeracy and general knowledge. Social Engagement and Responsibility: Making sure that children can form stable attachments to nurturing adults when they are young and develop strong, supportive relationships within and outside their families. Family Literacy Project Coordinator Jean Rasmussen attended a regional roundtable discussion with other B.C. partners in the NCA on June 8. To move forward with the National Children’s Agenda, governments are also asking for your comments. Contact the National Children’s Agenda (NCA) toll-free number (1-800-361-6392) for a copy of the two NCA discussion papers or download from the NCA website: The toll free line will be operative for your feedback until the middle of August. You can also contact : Gavin Brown |
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