Just because a student’s parents are illiterate does not mean that he will be unsuccessful learning to read. In fact, illiterate parents often make good reading coaches. Why? They don’t want their children to struggle the way they have. They may not be able to correct mispronounced words, but they can certainly be some of the best motivators a reading teacher could ask for.
If you discover that a student has an illiterate parent, try to meet with that adult to find out what the goals are for the child. You will likely hear something about wanting their children to have a better education and a better life than they have. This is the kind of statement that gives the teacher a chance to get that parent on board as a serious reading coach. Help the parent lay out a plan that keeps the student reading.
The plan would include strict reading times. The parent would need to monitor this and make sure it’s happening. The parent could also ask the child to read to them. Maybe the parent would like to know what is in the newspaper each day. The student could read it to him or her. In fact, the student could help his parent learn to read or improve very weak reading skills. The teacher should stay in close contact with the parent to insure that he or she is getting the support needed to keep the student motivated. Hopefully, an illiterate parent would constantly remind the student of the very real struggles of not being able to read. The parent can always point out what the family does without due to poor job choices, but probably the best way to engage the student is for the parent to have that kid read to him or her. Simply turn off the television and use reading as an evening activity.