• Education
• Literacy
• Literacy Programs

What are first language literacy and English Literacy Development (ELD) programs?

Literacy and English Literacy Development (ELD) programs are for adults who want to learn English.

Learning a new language uses your skills from learning to read in your first language. Some newcomers may have had limited or interrupted formal schooling. These programs can help you learn to read and write in English, which can be difficult if you cannot read and write in your first language.

English for Special Needs programs, like the ones offered by the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), are available through some school boards for adults that accommodate different learning needs and support the learners' emotional, physical or developmental needs.

To find Adult Literacy and English Literacy Development (ELD) programs, you can:

• Check your local school board website
• Visit your local library
• Visit your local settlement agency

Types of Programs

There are different types of programs available to newcomers. Programs that focus on language skills related to specific areas of interest, like conversational English.

You may be eligible for free adult high school language, reading, writing and other courses to help you get your high school diploma.

Before you register and enroll in a language program, ensure it is right for you and will meet your needs. Some free or low-cost programs have specific eligibility requirements related to residency and immigration status. Some language programs offer childminding programs for toddler and preschool children on-site to ensure accessibility for all eligible language learners.

How can I help my child learn English?

It is hard to help your children learn English if you are also learning it. However, there are things you can do to help.

You can encourage your child to practice their English skills at youth English conversation programs or a homework club through the school. Many settlement agencies and libraries offer these programs. Ask for language help at your child's school or the settlement worker at your school or local agency.

For young children who are not yet in school, you may wish to visit a local EarlyON or Family Centre. You can contact 211Ontario for more information about available programs in your area.

For More Information

• Adult learning: English as a Second Language- School boards located across Ontario provide language training classes. You can take beginner, intermediate and advanced-level classes.
• Improve your English and French - These language training programs are for newcomers from the Government of Ontario.
• Ontario Public Libraries - A list of Ontario libraries that have websites.
• ESL Corner - This section on Settlement.Org has many activities to help you improve your English and learn more about Canadian culture, laws and daily life.