Early Literacy

Early literacy is everything that children know about reading before they formally learn to read in school.

Mouthing books as a baby, and later wanting books to be read over and over again will lead to the ability to point out letters, to rhyme, and to retell stories. These are some of the important skills children need for later reading.

Parents and caregivers play the critical role in ensuring their child is ready to learn to read when they arrive in kindergarten.

Please check out Multnomah County Public Library's excellent introduction to early literacy.

The following lists have great suggestions for books to share with your child. Always ask a librarian for help anytime you are in the Children’s Library.

Booklists
100 Books Every Child Should Know Before Starting School (English version)
100 Books Every Child Should Know Before Starting School (Spanish version)

Other Great Early Literacy Links

NECTAC: The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (supported by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education)
Young children with disabilities and their families need to be part of early literacy initiatives. Includes evidenced-based practices for teaching literacy skills.

Zero to Three Organization's Early Literacy Handout
A great description of early literacy and which books are best for children under three.