More About Early Literacy

Q: What is early literacy?
A: Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they actually read or write. It is a child’s ability to recognize that letters and their sounds combine to form words, and together a story.

Q: When does early literacy begin?
A: Early literacy begins developing at birth! The first years of a child’s life are an important time. During this time they are developing a wide range of skills-- including those of language and literacy.

Q: What are the skills of early literacy?
A: Read about early literacy skills by linking to the page below.

Q: How do young children learn these skills?
A: Young children learn best through meaningful play when they are actively engaged and having fun. Conversation, singing and reading together from infancy will help literacy skills flourish.

Q: What can I do?
A: There are many enjoyable activities that you can share each day. Whether you are reading, singing or playing, choose pastimes that are right for the age of the child. Try books, activities, rhymes and songs, and programs.

• The Skills of Early Literacy
• Brain Development
  Beginning at birth and during your child’s early years, crucial connections are formed and strengthened in the brain through repeated playful, loving, and stimulating experiences. Each time you read a story, tickle a belly, sing a song, or play peek-a-boo, connections are made between brain cells. Repetition makes the connections stronger, so sing that song again!
• Reading Aloud
  • Let's Talk About the Story
  • BookFlix: Video Books for Young Children
  • Librarian's Favorite Read Alouds
  • Reading Tips in Many Languages
• Web Resources

Illustration from WHOSE SHOES? by Anna Grossnickle Hines. Illustration copyright ©2001 by LeUyen Pham.
Used by permission of Harcourt, Inc.