Author

Charisma M. Castro*
Northeastern College, Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines

Abstract

Early childhood education plays a significant role in developing the foundational literacy skills necessary for children’s future academic success. However, limited studies have examined the effectiveness of early childhood programs in improving the literacy readiness of kindergarten pupils in public elementary schools in Roxas Districts, Isabela. This study assessed the impact of early childhood programs on the early literacy readiness of kindergarten pupils during the School Year 2025–2026. The study employed the descriptive-normative research design involving twenty-five (25) kindergarten teachers selected through purposive population sampling. Data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire, documentary analysis, and unstructured interviews. Frequency, percentage, and weighted mean were used in analyzing the data. Findings revealed that early childhood programs were effectively implemented, obtaining an overall weighted mean of 4.09, while their effect on literacy readiness was rated “Very Effective” with an overall weighted mean of 4.52. The benefits of the programs were likewise strongly affirmed, with an average weighted mean of 4.54, particularly in improving phonemic awareness, comprehension, fluency, and early writing skills. Nevertheless, serious challenges were identified, including limited parental involvement, inadequate instructional resources, and large class sizes, with an overall weighted mean of 3.74. The study recommends strengthening parental participation, providing continuous teacher training, and increasing educational resources to further enhance literacy readiness among kindergarten pupils.

Keywords: Early childhood programs, literacy readiness, kindergarten pupils, phonemic awareness, reading readiness.

*Corresponding author / Email Address: charisma.castro001@deped.gov.ph
DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS05021212

Recommended citation:
Castro, C. M. (2026). Impact of early childhood programs on kindergarten literacy readiness in Roxas Districts, Isabela. Pantao (International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (2), 5288-5296. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS05021212

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