This book examines emergent literacy as the foundations for language instruction and seeks to relate the work of those doing research on literacy acquisition and those designing programs to facilitate children's literacy development. It bridges theory and practice, looking at both cognitive processes and settings in which children first experience literacy. With contributions by leading researchers in the field, the book examines emergent literacy in nonliterate homes; oral language supports; parent-child reading; literacy and working class families; literacy from a developmental perspective; parental involvement; and collaborative efforts of teachers and parents. An essential collection for all research and education in the language arts methods area. Will also appeal to educators involved in reading instruction and parent-education.

This concise, accessible book explores the connection between language acquisition and emergent literacy skills, and how this sets the stage for later literacy development. Chapters address formative early experiences such as speaking and listening, being read to, and talking about print concepts and the alphabet. Written for early childhood professionals, reading specialists, and speech–language pathologists, the book describes effective assessment and instructional approaches for fostering language learning and emergent literacy in typically developing children and those at risk for language delays. Vivid case examples illustrate specific ways to collaborate with parents to give all children a strong foundation for school readiness and success.

`Laurie Makin′s and Marian Whitehead′s book on How to Develop Children′s Literacy stands out from the usual guides on child development and learning. The language is accessible and engaging. The text is empowering rather than condescending in tone and in content. Teacher trainees and people working with children, including parents, who are wanting a good depth of information quickly about children′s early literacy development will find this book provides it′ - Childforum, New Zealand Are you studying for a vocational qualification in early childhood? Are you a qualified teacher working with under-fives for the first time? Are you a nursery nurse or teaching assistant? Or are you thinking about doing one of these things? If so, this book is for you. The years before a child starts school are crucial in establishing strong foundations for literacy. This book addresses current issues relating to early literacy. The authors offer pragmatic ideas and information on key areas including: } literacy for babies and toddlers } literacy for preschool, daycare and nursery children } play, bilingualism, special needs and official curriculum frameworks. How to Develop Children′s Early Literacy is a practical guide designed to support all early literacy educators.

This seminal text provides a scholarly overview of evidence-based approaches to emergent literacy intervention as a necessary component of clinical practice in speech-language pathology. Numerous books are available on the topic of emergent literacy, yet few are developed specifically for the speech-language pathologist. The scope of this book is comprehensive yet focused: it is tailored to identify state-of-the-art approaches on a range of topics in the area of emergent literacy, yet focuses its emphasis on children from toddlerhood to kindergarten. This period corresponds to the emergent literacy years, which precedes children’s transition to beginning reading. Each chapter provides scientifically cited background information relevant to the content of the chapter before discussing the "How To" and the "Why." Figures, tables, and charts throughout the text are easily accessible to the busy practicing clinician. By providing a usable integration of theory and research, it encourages readers to think about building early foundations in literacy to promote healthy early development, and emphasizes the specific approaches speech-language pathologists need to employ when targeting literacy in childhood intervention. Designed for speech-language pathologists at both pre-professional and post-graduate levels, the book will also be of value to reading specialists, literacy coaches, special educators, preschool and kindergarten teachers, and others.

Current research increasingly highlights the role of early literacy in young children's development--and facilitates the growth of practices and policies that promote success among diverse learners. The Handbook of Early Literacy Research presents cutting-edge knowledge on all aspects of literacy learning in the preschool years. Volume 1 covers such essential topics as major theories of early literacy; writing development; understanding learning disabilities, including early intervention approaches; cultural and socioeconomic contexts of literacy development; and tutoring programs and other special intervention efforts.

Current research increasingly highlights the role of early literacy in young children's development--and informs practices and policies that promote success among diverse learners. The Handbook of Early Literacy Research presents cutting-edge knowledge on all aspects of literacy learning in the early years. Volume 2 provides additional perspectives on important topics covered in Volume 1 and addresses critical new topics: the transition to school, the teacher-child relationship, sociodramatic play, vocabulary development, neuroimaging work, Vygotskian theory, findings from international studies, and more.

Designed for speech-language pathologists to enhance emergent literacy intervention for preschool and kindergarten-age children, this book includes 90 lessons addressing key areas of emergent literacy: phonological awareness, print concepts, alphabet knowledge, emergent writing, inferential language, and vocabulary. These lessons are suitable for use in clinical settings as well as in collaboration with classroom teachers. Also included are an overview of emergent literacy, differentiation recommendations, and suggestions for lesson integration across the key areas.