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Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers

Early Literacy Begins at Birth

Puffin

Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they can actually read and write.  Early literacy skills are the roots of reading success -- and it is never too early to plant the seed!
 
The early reading experiences you provide for your child today will have a lasting impact on their future.

Every Child Ready to Read!

Talk, Sing, Read, Write, Play!

Five early literacy practices to get ready to read -- from birth!

Children prepare to read long before they enter school.  In fact, early literacy skills begin to develop right from birth.  A child's positive early experiences with books and language lay the foundation for success in learning to read.

There is so much you can do to help build reading readiness.  Talk, sing, read, write and play with your child.  Share books together every day and have fun reading!

Puffin Talking

TALK

Talking with children helps develop language skills and stimulates brain development. When children talk with adults they are developing listening skills, learning new words and how a conversation works.

 

 

Puffin Singing

SING

Singing and rhyming are great for learning the different sounds that make up words. This helps when children begin to read.

 

 

Puffin Reading

READ

Reading aloud is the most effective way to help children become good readers. During shared reading children learn new words, how a book works, basic story structure (beginning, middle, end) and that print has meaning. Most important of all, children learn that reading is an enjoyable activity!

 

 

Puffin Writing

WRITE

Writing helps children learn that letters and words stand for sounds and that print has meaning.

 

 


PLAY

Children learn about the world when they play.  The more they learn, the more they understand books and stories when they begin to read.

 

 

The Public Library, Early Literacy and YOU!

Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries would like to partner with you to help the children in your life get ready to read!

Young girl with mother checking out a library bookIn the following pages you will find:

  • Fun ideas to incorporate early literacy practices throughout your day
  • Book lists and tips for shared reading with your child
  • Information about library programs for you and your child to attend 
  • Great links and additional information on child development
  • How to reserve eBooks and other high quality web content for children

Please explore! If you have any questions or would like to get additional information on any of the topics covered please do not hesitate to contact staff at your local library.