Literacy Adventures from Childhood to Advocacy

Teresa Hamilton Kerr, a passionate voice in literacy education, takes us on a journey through her career and life-long commitment to spreading the joy of reading. From her formative years in a print-rich home to her impactful work at the Hamilton Public Library, Teresa reveals the importance of early literacy and the power of intervention for struggling readers. Her transition to adult literacy advocacy at the provincial level provides a wealth of insights into how communities and educators can foster a love of reading among diverse groups.

We uncover the enchantment of “Story Time with Mrs. T,” a beloved initiative Teresa revived after retirement to rekindle the joys of children's services. Teresa shares her thoughts on the intimate bonds formed during story time between parents and children and the cultural enrichment gained from introducing new languages like French through storytelling. With practical advice for educators on supporting students with varied literacy skills, she emphasizes the need for empathy and high-interest, low-vocabulary materials, ensuring reading remains an accessible gateway to learning for all students. The episode highlights strategies for balancing technology with the tactile pleasure of physical books and the importance of culturally relevant teaching practices. 

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