For many newcomers, improving literacy skills is an important step in building a confident and successful life.
Moving to a new country takes courage. Along with excitement and opportunity, it can also bring challenges, such as learning how new systems work, finding a job, helping your children at school, and navigating daily life in Canada.
For many newcomers, improving literacy skills is an important step in building a confident and successful life.
Literacy is often thought of as reading and writing, but it is much more than that. Literacy is the ability to understand information, communicate clearly, and use what you learn in everyday situations. In Canada, literacy skills can help you do things like read a bus schedule, understand a work schedule, fill out forms, communicate with your child’s teacher, or access healthcare services.
Strong literacy skills help people participate more fully in their communities and workplaces. They also build independence and confidence as newcomers settle into life in Canada.
Your skills and experience matter
Many newcomers arrive in Canada with strong education, professional experience and valuable skills. Some are fluent readers and writers in their first language. Others may have had interruptions in schooling due to conflict, poverty or other barriers.
No matter your background, improving literacy skills can help you adapt more easily to life in Canada.
For example, stronger communication skills can help when applying for jobs, completing training programs, understanding workplace safety information, or building professional networks. Literacy skills can also help parents support their children’s learning at school and feel more comfortable communicating with teachers and community organizations.
Learning in a welcoming environment
Across Canada, adult literacy programs offer supportive spaces where newcomers can improve their literacy skills. These programs are designed for adults and recognize that learners come from many different cultural and educational backgrounds.
These programs often provide more than education. They also help people connect with others, reduce feelings of isolation, and build a sense of belonging in a new community. Learning alongside others who are on a similar journey can make the experience encouraging and empowering.
To find a local adult literacy program near you, visit lookunderlearn.ca.
Free resources to support your journey
ABC Life Literacy Canada believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to build the skills they need to reach their goals.
We offer a wide range of free programs and resources that help adults strengthen important life skills, including financial literacy, digital skills, workplace communication, and family learning.
Many of our financial family literacy resources are available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog and Simplified Chinese. We also provide clear-language materials in English and French to make learning easier and more accessible.
Whether you want to improve your communication skills, better understand finances in Canada or build confidence in everyday tasks, these resources can help support your journey.
To learn more about free literacy programs and resources available to newcomers, visit abclifeliteracy.ca.
