Children begin to develop language skills during infancy. Long before an infant babbles or says his first word, he is developing skills needed to learn to communicate and eventually to read. Research shows us that children who were regularly exposed to literacy materials at a very young age (during the crucial learning period of birth to three) are those who most often achieve early school success. The concept of emergent literacy (or reading readiness) tells us that parents and caregivers are their child’s first teacher in life and demonstrates that they can set the foundation for literacy and future school success by introducing literacy materials and activities into the lives of even the youngest of children.

Want to learn more? Go to these literacy web sites :

http://www.ed.gov/americareads/educators_early.html
Reading to a young child, even before a baby can hold a book, creates an appreciation for what books offer. Parents and caregivers will find that talking, singing, and reading will help their young children be ready for school.

http://www.ed.gov/offices/OERI/ECI/index.html
This is the National Institute on Early Childhood Development and Education (ECI) Home Page. The design of the page encourages collaboration at all levels -- families, educators, communities, policymakers -- in an effort to assist all children. Visit this site often to learn more about our comprehensive and challenging early childhood research activities: Where Learning Begins!