Babies - Early Literacy - Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers - Info Guides at Newfoundland & Labrador Public Libraries

Early Literacy for Babies

From the moment babies enter this world they are learning. At this stage many early literacy skills are being developed by simply providing a loving, nurturing environment of care and attention.

While they may not understand language yet, it is still very important to talk, sing, read and play with infants every day. Below are some ideas on including early literacy in your baby's care.

Babies, Books and Beyond!
Early Literacy Activities for You and Your Baby

Talk, Sing, Read, Write, Play Everyday!

TALKING with Babies

Chat with your baby! Your child might not be able to produce words yet, but they are learning a lot about language as they hear you speak and observe your responses to their coos and caas.

Respond to the sounds that your baby makes by either repeating them or providing a verbal response
Point to and name familiar objects
Provide a running commentary of activities you complete throughout the day
Ask your baby questions and pause as you await their response

SINGING with Babies

Singing is great for brain development; babies love to hear the sound of your voice and to be near you.

You don't have to be musical to sing with your child! Here are some suggestions for incorporating singing throughout your day:

Gently move baby's arms and legs while singing simple songs or saying rhymes

Listen to recorded music while going about your day
Make funny faces and sounds for your baby

READING with Babies

infant reading a board book with caregiver

Create positive experiences with books. Cozy up and share a story!

Allow your child to touch and hold board books. Some chewing may occur, but this is just another form of exploration
Look through family photo albums, name people and share stories
Make shared reading a part of your daily routine!

For more information on sharing books with your baby and suggested titles click here

WRITING with Babies

Every time your baby reaches, grabs, pinches, and grasps they are developing the fine motor skills needed to write.

Provide opportunity for your child to pinch and pick up small safe objects, such as cheerios and peas

Play with a variety of items that can be moved or rolled, such as blocks, balls or cloth
Use rhyme and song to introduce spatial concepts, up, down, through, that your child will use later when learning to write letters

PLAYING with Babies

Play is a powerful tool in supporting infant brain development, and another way infants learn about the world around them.

Play with your baby! Enjoy a few rounds of peek-a-boo, count toes, or tickle and name body parts
Provide an opportunity for your child to make sounds with toys or instruments
Offer child-safe, household items to play with. Plastic bowls, large spoons, and cups are inexpensive and engaging toys