Yes, the pictures do matter! Illustrations are more than just decorative elements, they are a key part of books that support children’s early literacy skills. Recent research emphasizes the significant impact of visual elements on young readers’ cognitive and language development. Let’s explore how the illustrations in children’s books foster early literacy skills. Enhance Comprehension… Read more »
Tag: Imagination and literacy
The Ultimate in Multi-Tasking: Developing Early Literacy Skills During Chores
So much to do and so little time. When you are busy trying to get everything done, it’s easy to overlook the potential for teaching early literacy skills during everyday chores. However, research suggests that daily tasks like picking up, cooking, washing dishes, folding laundry, and cleaning offer rich, natural opportunities for children to develop… Read more »
From Twinkle, Twinkle to ABC: The Magic of Music in Early Literacy
Music plays an important role in supporting early literacy development. Research shows that integrating music into early childhood education can enhance phonological awareness, vocabulary acquisition, and motor skills which are foundational to reading and writing. Let’s take a closer look at how music fosters early literacy skills. Music Promotes Phonological Awareness Phonological awareness is the… Read more »
Fall into Literacy: Using The Autumn Season to Support Early Literacy Skills
The Autumn season offers numerous opportunities to support early literacy development with its vibrant colors, exciting holidays, and cozy atmosphere. Educators and families can maximize children’s natural curiosity and excitement of this time of year to create meaningful and engaging literacy experiences. Incorporating seasonal themes into literacy activities helps children connect learning to their real… Read more »
Love, Language, and Learning: The Role of Relationships in Developing Literacy Skills
While much attention is given to early literacy educational practices and programs, the impact of positive relationships between caregivers and young children on their literacy development cannot be overstated. Positive relationships are the foundation of environments that support early literacy skills to flourish. Research indicates that the frequency and quality of interactions between caregivers and… Read more »
Classroom Design with Literacy in Mind
Designing early childhood classrooms that support literacy skills development requires thoughtful organization, intentional material placement, and establishing routines that include literacy activities. Let’s take a closer look at some strategies that create settings that support the development of children’s literacy skills: Label Items: Label children’s personal items and classroom materials with pictures and words. Labeling… Read more »
Developing Early Literacy through Child-Directed Play
Child-directed play has emerged as a significant approach to developing children’s early literacy skills supported by recent research and educational practices. Play is the primary mode through which young children learn and develop. It encompasses various types, including free play, guided play, and structured play. Free play is child-initiated and directed, allowing children to explore… Read more »
Growing Literacy Skills Using Science Activities
Hands on science activities are highly engaging to young learners. Such activities also enhance early literacy skills, a connection supported by a growing body of research. Let’s take a closer look at how science experiences support early literacy skills. #1: Encouraging Curiosity and Inquiry Science activities evoke children’s natural curiosity. During science investigations, children ask… Read more »
Monkey See, Monkey Do- It’s More than Just a Game!
Why do we play imitation games with young children? Of course it’s fun, but did you know that the ability to imitate actions and sounds is a crucial aspect of children’s literacy development? Let’s explore why encouraging children to imitate actions and sounds is an important part of their literacy journey. It Builds Cognitive… Read more »
The Write Start: Developing Writing Skills from Birth
High Five skill # 5, early writing, doesn’t begin when children can hold writing/drawing instruments. It begins in infancy as we work to develop the precursory skills children need to engage in writing activities. Writing engages the brain in unique ways that support memory and meaning making that can’t be duplicated by using technology. Research… Read more »