Newsletter - Head Start Happenings: April 2026

Miranda Osburn
Apr 19
2 min read

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The Power of Early Literacy

In today’s rapidly evolving world, early literacy development is no longer limited to the ability to read and write but it encompasses a broader set of skills essential for success. Early literacy refers to the acquisition of language and foundational reading skills during early stages of childhood. It plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s school

readiness and sets the stage for lifelong learning.

Early literacy goes beyond simply learning the alphabet; it includes language development, phonological awareness, print awareness (understanding that print carries meaning, books contain letters and words), vocabulary building, and comprehension skills. These literacy skills paired with literacy programs are vital for children to become proficient readers and effective communicators.

By understanding the significance of early literacy skills and implementing effective approaches, building strong foundations for impactful literacy practices and empowering children to reach their full potential is possible.

Written by

Voyager Sopris Learning

“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”

-Emilie Buchwald

What the Reading Experts Say

Reading and talking with your children plays an

important role in developing their vocabulary.

Typically, more words are used in written language than in spoken language. The more you read to children, the larger the vocabulary they will develop.

Research has shown children learn new words by:

• Hearing a word over and over.

• Hearing words spoken by the important

people in their lives: Mom, Dad, siblings,

grandparents.

• Hearing words in a meaningful context-during

conversation at dinner, in the car, while

playing and reading.

“Rephrase and extend your child’s words, ask a

clarifying question (tell me more about the man you saw), model more complex vocabulary or sentence structure (yes, I see the tall skyscraper you built with lots of windows), and ask open ended questions,” says Susan Hall and Louisa Moats of Straight Talk about Reading.

By: West Bloomfield Township Public Library