Words & Language

Activity 1: The ABCs

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Children are naturally curious about their names and become excited when they can identify letters in their names. Once they know some letters in their names, they begin to find those letters all around them.

Activity 2: Let's Read!

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When you point out or model reading skills, children have an opportunity to learn how print works and that it has meaning. Reading aloud to children helps them learn new words and how books work.

Activity 3: Telephone Talk

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Children need opportunities to participate in conversations. They learn to take turns as they listen and respond. Communication skills are the foundation for getting along with others.

Activity 4: Rhymes and Songs

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Words are made up of sounds. When children become aware of the separate sounds in words and syllables, they are on their way to becoming readers and writers. Reciting and playing with nursery rhymes, finger plays, and songs gives children opportunities to develop this skill.

Activity 5: Scribbles and Letters

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Writing develops in stages. First, children use scribbles. Then, as they become aware of letters in their environment, their scribbles will take on letter-like forms. Later, they will begin to insert known letters into their writing. Finally, they will intentionally use letters to represent sounds.