Early experiences lay essential foundations for future success in literacy. Literacy is ‘the set skills which allows an individual to engage fully in society and in learning, through the different forms of language, and the range of texts, which society values and find useful.’ (Curriculum for Excellence, 2010, pg1)
Literacy is commonly understood as the ability to read and write. However, listening and talking are also important literacy skills.
From birth to 5 years, literacy is viewed in its broadest sense, as children’s early interactions and experiences lay the foundations step-by-step for future learning and success in literacy.
Aspects of the child’s environment, routine, motivation and skills can support literacy learning at all stages of development.
From 5 years onwards primary schools take the lead in teaching literacy, but in the early years literacy is everybody’s responsibility. All staff, parents and carers who spend time with a child can provide experiences which promote and enhance the foundations for literacy.
It is possible to detect children at risk of future difficulty with literacy, so we can be pro-active to prevent those difficulties arising.
