Handang Magbasa: A Collaboration towards Early Literacy
Coordinated community efforts are essential to build strong foundations of early literacy, beginning with the most basic unit of society—the family. Parents serve as children’s first teachers. They influence early literacy through daily communication and children’s engagement with different texts at home. When children reach their pre-school age, Child Development Workers (CDWs) assume an essential role through structured teaching methods and guidance on their educational milestones.
Adarna Group Foundation, Inc. (AGFI), through its Handang Magbasa Program, recognizes the need for this collaborative effort. The program emphasizes not only the development of children’s reading skills but also the need to support those who nurture literacy at home and in learning centers. As part of its 2025 rollout, Handang Magbasa featured workshops designed to equip both parents and CDWs.
Mga Angkop na Gawain Batay sa Kuwento - This topic emphasized the importance of extending storytelling through story-based activities. This session enabled CDWs to enhance students’ comprehension while fostering an avenue to enhance literacy and build connections.
Paglalaro at Pagkatuto (For CDWs) - This session explored the different kinds of play that CDWs could incorporate in classroom discussions. The workshop also emphasized how play supports early literacy and highlights the developmental areas strengthened through meaningful play.
Paglalaro at Pagkatuto (For Parents) - This topic provided ways for parents to incorporate play by involving children in daily household routines. It also demonstrated how everyday household items can become effective learning tools.
Tahanan: Ang Unang Paaralan - This session outlined the role of parents and the home in shaping the foundations of learning. It also highlighted the importance of encouraging children to read and write at home.
Positibong Pagdidisiplina - Along with the parents’ workshop, positive discipline was put into emphasis. This topic explains how positive discipline reinforces appropriate behavior, encourages self-reflection, and eliminates the need for punitive methods through corrective yet affirming strategies.
The efforts between parents and CDWs ensure that children receive consistent support within their learning environments. When home becomes actively involved in children’s development, learning becomes part of their everyday experiences. Moreover, building a reading community extends beyond parents and teachers. The continuous support from local government units and partner organizations that share the same vision as AGFI has also become the driving force behind these initiatives. Through the active involvement with the community, AGFI continues to work toward its vision of making every Filipino child a reader.