Reading a signboard, calculating the change from a purchase, or writing one’s name—these basic tasks all rely on literacy and numeracy skills. These aptitudes are more than just school subjects. They are foundational life skills that enable individuals to communicate, reason, and solve everyday problems.
Even so, for many children in the Philippines, especially those in vulnerable and underserved communities, acquiring these essential skills is a persistent challenge. Poverty, displacement, and inequality prevent many Filipino children, let alone those living in street situations, from receiving the quality education they deserve. These children are often forced to prioritize survival over schooling, missing the opportunity to learn to read, write, and perform simple calculations.
To address this educational gap, Childhope Philippines and other organizations are taking concrete steps to bring learning to where it is needed most. This blog explores what literacy and numeracy skills are, their importance in child development, notable programs in the Philippines addressing these areas, and how Childhope’s KalyEskwela initiative empowers street children through education.
What are Literacy Skills?
Literacy skills refer to the ability to read, write, speak, and listen in ways that enable effective communication. These skills are not limited to understanding books or writing essays; they also include practical competencies such as reading instructions, understanding public information, filling out forms, and engaging in meaningful conversations.
According to the National Literacy Trust, literacy is a vital tool for lifelong learning and active participation in society. It enhances a child’s ability to comprehend the world around them, express themselves clearly, and make informed decisions. Foundational literacy skills typically include:
- Recognizing letters and words
- Understanding sentence structure
- Reading with comprehension
- Writing clearly and legibly
- Speaking and listening for understanding
Developing strong literacy skills from an early age improves school readiness, promotes cognitive development, and boosts self-esteem.
What are Numeracy Skills?
On the other hand, numeracy skills involve understanding and working with numbers in real-life contexts. More than just performing arithmetic operations, numeracy encompasses logical thinking, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities. It allows individuals to analyze information, manage finances, make measurements, and interpret data.
As defined by National Numeracy, numeracy is the confidence and competence to use numbers and mathematical approaches in everyday life. For children, this includes:
- Counting and number recognition
- Basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Understanding time and money
- Measuring quantities
- Identifying patterns and shapes
Numeracy helps children develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which are necessary for decision-making and navigating the demands of daily life.
Related Article: Empowering Street Children Through Basic Literacy: A Look into Childhope’s BLAN Session
Why Do Literacy and Numeracy Skills Matter?
Strong literacy and numeracy skills are the building blocks of a successful education and a productive life. When children are equipped with these foundational skills, they are more likely to stay in school, pursue higher education, and eventually break the cycle of poverty.
Here are key benefits of literacy and numeracy skills:
Improved Educational Outcomes
Children with strong foundational skills learn more effectively across all subjects, from science and history to technology and art. Literacy and numeracy form the language of learning.
Enhanced Employment Opportunities
Basic reading, writing, and math skills are often minimum requirements for entry-level jobs. These competencies increase employability and income potential.
Greater Independence
Literacy and numeracy embolden individuals to make informed decisions, understand contracts, manage finances, and navigate systems like healthcare and transportation.
Better Health and Well-being
Literacy is linked to health literacy—the ability to understand medical information, medication instructions, and health services. Numeracy supports proper nutrition and budgeting for healthcare.
Active Civic Participation
People with strong skills are more likely to engage in community affairs, exercise their rights, and contribute to societal development.
For children living in street situations, these benefits are even more critical. Education becomes a protective shield that opens doors to safer environments and long-term change.
Related Article: Leadership-Aspiring Youth Team Speaks Out to Advocate for Children in Street Situations
Literacy and Numeracy Programs in the Philippines
Several organizations and government initiatives in the Philippines work to promote literacy and numeracy, especially among marginalized communities. Below are some notable programs addressing both skill areas:
- Abot-Alam Program (DepEd): This Department of Education initiative targets out-of-school youth by providing access to basic education, life skills, and employment readiness training. It integrates literacy and numeracy in its Alternative Learning System (ALS) curriculum.
- Kariton Klasrum (Dynamic Teen Company): Founded by CNN Hero of the Year awardee Efren Peñaflorida, this mobile classroom reaches out-of-school children in slum areas. Volunteer educators teach literacy and numeracy lessons using simple learning materials and interactive methods.
- Barangay Literacy Councils (BLRCs): Spearheaded by the Literacy Coordinating Council, these community-based councils design and implement localized literacy and numeracy activities. They often collaborate with NGOs and schools to deliver basic education to remote areas.
- Summer Reading Camps (Save the Children Philippines): These camps are held in underserved communities to improve reading fluency and comprehension among early-grade learners. Some also include basic numeracy exercises through games and interactive learning.
- Synergeia Foundation Programs: Through partnerships with local governments, Synergeia implements programs that improve literacy and numeracy among public school children. The foundation emphasizes teacher training and parental involvement to boost learning outcomes.
Each of these programs plays a vital role in making foundational education accessible to Filipino children who would otherwise be left behind.
KalyEskwela: Nurturing Young Minds Through Learning on the Streets
Apart from the programs mentioned above, Childhope Philippines has taken strides to advocate for the advancement of literacy and numeracy skills among children, especially those living in the streets. In their efforts to address educational inequality, Childhope established KalyEskwela, its flagship initiative that brings learning directly to children in street situations. Translating to “school on the streets,” KalyEskwela uses a mobile van equipped with audio-visual tools and instructional materials to conduct lessons wherever street children are found.
KalyEskwela offers non-formal education based on DepEd’s Alternative Learning System, with modules focused on literacy, numeracy, values formation, and life skills. Trained street educators work closely with children to ensure lessons are personalized, interactive, and paced according to the child’s needs.
Key features of KalyEskwela include:
- Basic Literacy and Numeracy Instruction: Tailored modules in reading, writing, and arithmetic build foundational competencies.
- Digital and Multimedia Learning: Videos, visual aids, and interactive sessions make lessons more engaging.
- Monitoring and Progress Tracking: Each child’s learning milestones are documented, allowing for adaptive teaching strategies.
- Referral to Formal Schooling: Children showing readiness are referred to formal schools, with Childhope providing enrollment assistance and supplies.
KalyEskwela helps transform the streets into a safe and nurturing learning space, offering children not just education, but also hope and direction.
Be the Light and Help Street Children Embrace the Joy of Learning
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their circumstances. Literacy and numeracy are not privileges; they are rights that unlock the potential within every child.
Through your support, Childhope Philippines can continue its mission to deliver quality education to street children who need it the most. Whether through donations, volunteer efforts, or spreading awareness, you can be part of the movement that equips the next generation with the skills they need to shape a brighter future.
You may visit Childhope’s Facebook page to know more. Together, let’s ensure that no child is left behind when it comes to literacy, numeracy, and the joy of learning.