The 5 Early Literacy Practices

Sing

Songs are a wonerful way to learn about language.  Songs help children develop listening skills and pay attention to the rhythms and rhymes of spoken language.  Singing also slows down language so children can hear the different sounds that make up words.  This helps when children begin to read printed language.

Play

Children learn a lot about language through play.  Play helps children think symbolically, so they understand that spoken and written words can stand for real objects and experiences.  A ruler becomes a magic wand, for instance, or a playmate becomes an astronaut exploring space.  Play also helps children express themselves and put thoughts into words.

Talk

Children learn language and other early literacy skills by listening to their parents and others talk.  As children hear spoken language, they learn new words and what they mean.  They also learn about the world around them.  This will help children understand the maning of what they are reading.

Write

Read

Reading together or shared reading is the single most important way to help chilren get Ready 2 Read!  Reading together increases vocabulary and general knowledge.  It helps children learn how print looks and how books work.  Shared reading also helps children develp and interest in reading.  Children who enjoy being read to are more likely to wan to learn to read themselves.

Reading and writing go together!  Both represent spoken language and communicate information.  Children become aware that printed letters stand for spoken words as they see print used in their daily lives.  They develop a knowldedge of the purpose and meaning of reading through writing.  As chilren scribble and draw, they practice eye-hand coordinationa and exercise the muscles in their fingers and hands.  This helps develop the fine motor control they need to hold a pencil or crayon and to write letters and words.