More about Emergent Literacy-HAVE FUN!

The very first post of this blog focused on the fact that it is never too early to begin working on emergent literacy. The good thing is that this work does not have to be a chore! Developing a child's love of reading is fun (even if you can't read yourself, I dare say)! When you spend time with a child and a book you can build a relationship around imagination, wonder, and the amazing worlds that are found in books.

I would venture to say that most educators have heard about the wonderful education system in Finland. Finnish students do very well compared to those around the world. Also, the teachers report high satisfaction rates with the profession. Their school leaders believe that emergent literacy should be fostered first through PLAY (click here for an article on Finnish kindergarten). This makes for a wonderful environment in which to build the foundational pre-reading skills that students need for reading success. Check out this quick video that is explains the difference between "emergent literacy" and "reading readiness. Finnish teachers weave opportunities to develop rhyming and other pre-reading skills into the fun. There is a saying in Finland that goes like this:

“Those things you learn without joy you will forget easily.”

If you are going to teach our youngest students, please be ready to play. Show them the love of books through enjoying them with the students.

Happy, Joyful Reading!