Early Language and Literacy

The development of early language and literacy (reading and writing) begins in the first 3 years of life.  A child’s interaction with adults as well as with books, paper and pencils/crayons provides the groundwork for development of language, reading, and writing. Learning these skills is an ongoing process that develops through social experiences. This process builds as children develop their oral language and gain awareness of sounds used in language. It continues to grow as children understand meaning in the symbols/print around them.  The end result is acquiring reading and writing skills.

Early literacy does not mean learning to read early. Formal reading instruction is not developmentally appropriate for infants or toddlers. Early literacy behaviors can include manipulation of books such as page turning, looking at pictures in a book (especially favorite pictures), pointing to pictures of familiar objects, imitating an action seen in a book, talking about an event in the story, singing nursery rhymes, pretending to read or write and scribbling.  A strong foundation facilitates the development of literacy.

When oral language is emphasized in early childhood, children experience more success when learning to read and write.  Identifying children’s strengths and needs in speech, language and emerging literacy, allows for early detection of academic risk. Subsequently, it also allows for early intervention.  The goal is to prevent or reduce difficulties with literacy development. You can also check out our newer blog Early Literacy: Reading, Writing, Learning and Speech and Language Kids to learn more.