Literacy is more than just reading and writing. It’s the foundation upon which we learn and grow. Building literacy skills in children is one of the most effective ways to ensure they can achieve their full potential in school and throughout life. Literacy opens doors to understanding, empathy, critical thinking, and the capacity for lifelong learning. But far too many of Canada’s children are being left behind.
Low levels of literacy are linked to lower civic participation and community engagement and higher levels of incarceration and dependence on welfare.
Low literacy increases costs for healthcare services, criminal justice systems and social assistance, and boosts the demand for social services.
People with low literacy can have problems understanding health information, how to use medications, and how to prevent illness or disease.