Progress of Literacy Development in Children

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Recommended: Emergent Literacy

Literacy development is a process that begins in infancy and progresses throughout early childhood. Literacy often begins early, long before children encounter formal school instruction in writing and reading. Literacy develops in parallel with language, but in contrast to language it is not natural or inherent, it is an acquired skill and must be taught (Hamilton, 2013). Emergent literacy is the term that is used to explain a child's knowledge of reading skills before they learn how to read. Also referred to as early literacy skills, these are the essential abilities that are relevant to later literacy development. There are numerous scientific studies that provide evidence showing the relationship between early skill attainment and later literacy growth. Some have argued that being literate goes beyond simply mastering skills related to language, and in fact it encompasses a complex set of understandings, attitudes, and behaviors.
Early literacy cannot simply happen overnight; it is a social process which is made possible by the efforts of children’s parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, caregivers, and teachers. The importance of parent involvement cannot be overstated. Parents need to understand and appreciate the value of early reading habits. Shared reading experiences is one of the most important elements in children’s overall developmental and educational outcomes. However parent-child interactions in different cultures can vary widely. Some do not feel comfortable or professional enough to teach their child. Some may not know the importance of modeling reading to their children. Others may not realize that even babies can benefit from books.
Other barriers in literacy development
Through the support of libraries ...

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...cy instruction can be easily integrated into library story times. Based on studies of young kindergarteners, the most important elements to emphasize are alphabet knowledge, concepts about print, book handling skills, phonological sensitivity, and expressive vocabulary. In order for the programs to be effective, children’s librarians can plan to share books and activities that meet one of these specific goals.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the research specifically conducted on the role of public library programs in emergent literacy. The paper will provide a review of studies conducted in early literacy and how they inform children’s librarians about literacy development. The paper will include an assessment of a child’s acquisition of early literacy skills. Strategies for library story times will be suggested as supported by researched-based evidence.

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