Literacy in your daily routine

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Early literacy has become the hot topic in early childhood education.  Many preschool and pre-k classrooms have done all they can to incorporate literacy in young children's lives. So what exactly does literacy mean? Especially to parents?  The term "literacy" refers to the process of learning/using reading and writing skills for communication.  Early literacy refers to the exposure of reading and writing to young children ages birth to eight. 

These days you will find several opportunities to and tools for instilling literacy into your daily routine.  There are books you can buy that help your preschooler become acquainted with writing as well as reading.  There are television shows that review the alphabet and letter sounds.  There are songs that engage the musically inclined and websites for the computer savvy four year old (or even if your child isn't computer savvy).  Not only that, but the community has also stepped up to promoting reading.  Local libraries provide programs such as book clubs for young learners and beyond, tutoring,and meet a local author series.  Most recently, the Orange Board of Education along with the YWCA, ReRead, and Orange Public Library has opened up a Book Pantry.  Here, families can pick up a few books for their own pleasure. 

Although these are excellent ways to expose your child to literacy, let's not forget the amount of time spent in your presence during key parts of the day. Take breakfast time, for example, your child could be reading the cereal box or looking for letters on it.  Also, when you're driving or walking, I guarantee your child will (if they haven't already) point out familiar signs such as a stop sign, pedestrian crossing sign, or  some store or restaurant.  You can scaffold or build upon their knowledge by showing them signs such as a railroad crossing, street signs, etc.  Need to go grocery shopping?  How about allowing them to make the list with you.  You can spell the words out for them to write.  When you get to the store, have them read the list (include pictures for five year olds) to you one item at a time as the both of you search for it.  I did this with my nephew when he was four and he had a great time completing a mundane routine.

I often tell my parents, that reading and writing does not always have to be a sit down with paper and pencil activity.  As with everything involving young children, be creative.  Keep it fun, that is when the best learning happens.  Try to stay away from drill and kill, it will have an adverse effect on their interest in writing.  Finally, remember to stay involved.  Read to your child, write with your child, and talk with your child.  The benefits can be tremendous!