The following link from Zero to Three discusses the role the early years play in literacy and brain development. Why and how does the development of literacy skills begin long before children learn to read and write?
The article also emphasizes the importance of relationships in the early years:
"The development of strong attachment relationships with family and primary caregivers may be the central task of infancy. It is in the context of warm, loving relationships that infants learn to trust, to feel safe exploring their worlds, and to develop a sense of competence and confidence in their own ability to master new skills. This growing sense of self-esteem and personal identity prepares them for later success as communication partners, readers, and writers."
Read the full article here.
Aug 5, 2010 by Jenn Reid |
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For many families, "back to school" time is just around the corner. Whether your child is starting school for the first time or moving on to a new grade level, this time of year is a time a change. Change can bring about feelings of excitement as well as uncertainty.
For ways to help your child prepare for a new school year, see the Center article, Helping School Age Children Prepare For a New Teacher. This article discusses some of the ways parents can help their child feel prepared for the changes that a new school year can bring. Below is an excerpt:
"The single most important way to prepare for a change is to talk. It is possible that a child will want to avoid thinking about his upcoming year. [...] Parents should find ways to bring up the next year, talk about what they do know, and help their son or daughter wonder about what he or she does not know."
Books and reading together with your young child provide an excellent avenue for opening up discussions, especially about topics that are challenging. For books on the topic of separation and autonomy, see our second book list, Feeling strong on my own. These books were selected specifically to help children think about and prepare for time away from their parents and in new experiences, a part of every new school year.
