Preschool Literacy Experiences of Children in Punjabi, Urdu and Gujerati Speaking Families in England

Abstract

This paper discusses some findings from a literacy survey of 30 Asian families with preschool children. Research has been undertaken with bilingual preschool children but there is little research with families of preschool children whose first language is Punjabi, Urdu or Gujerati. Families in this survey lived in an inner‐city area in England and were mainly of Pakistani origin. Families were interviewed at home with the assistance of an interpreter where necessary. Parents reported extensive preschool activities in the home, high aspirations for their children's education and a willingness to be involved in home‐school links. Issues arising and implications for policy and practice are discussed.