What We Do
Research shows that engaging families in education is critical not only to a child’s success, but to the entire family’s economic and social well-being. The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) promotes family education solutions across three approaches by engaging families, educators, administrators, and advocates to drive results and ultimately reduce education inequities. Our work supports multigenerational learning for families from early childhood through adult education.
During the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, we have developed a collection of free online learning resources for families to engage with together at home, and are encouraging literacy practitioners to be aware of potential funding opportunities related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Additionally, our program partners are reshaping how they engage families, from virtual Parent Cafes to virtual music lessons. Take a look at some of their innovations here. We will work with our partners to evolve these and other resources as the landscape continues to change.
Model Programming
Place-based instruction of varying length and intensity to support families.
- Family Literacy programming
- Family Learning programming
- Family Engagement
To learn the specifics of our different programming models, please refer to our white paper Defining Our Work: Families Learning Together.
Professional Development
Training and resources to support professionals and practitioners of family learning.
- In-person training
- Online courses
- Publications, curricula
- Research and evaluation
Visit our Professional Development page to find our specific offerings and opportunities.
Community Development
Recruitment and activation of local partners and organizations, working collectively to build comprehensive family learning systems.
- Family Service Learning
- Policy and advocacy
- Community-wide initiatives
All of our work is focused on building capacity and creating opportunities for families. This is not done in isolation or through a cookie-cutter approach. What works in one community may not be best in a different location, and it takes a team of local support to create the greatest impact. With this in mind, NCFL operates a network of Family Learning Communities, each with different offerings tailored to a location’s unique needs and situations. Local partners and service providers are enlisted in each Family Learning Community to maximize results across the country.
