Nurturing the Home Learning Environment: Evidence from Qatar Reads Programme: Evidence from Qatar Reads Programme

This chapter examines the effectiveness of a family reading programme, Qatar Reads, implemented within a specific socio-cultural context, focusing on how to promote children’s literacy, linguistic, and emotional development through home learning environments. In addition to the reading activities of the Qatar Reads programme, this study investigates the role of home libraries and parent–child activities in this process. Employing data collected through a survey, and building on prior research, the study finds that the Qatar Reads programme has a significant, positive impact on children’s holistic development. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of home libraries and parent–child reading activities, as pivotal components driving children’s development. Despite the limitations mentioned in the chapter, these findings have implications for policymakers, educators, and families seeking to create a nurturing home environment for their children’s long-term development.