1. Create a print-rich environment.
- Label objects around the room in English and any languages that the children's families speak at home
- Include books in all interest areas
- Have children dictate stories and commentary about their artwork
2. Read aloud to children every day.
- Pick books with repeated phrases and rhymes
- Choose familiar favorites
- Make the reading process interactive
3. Ask open-ended questions.
- Prod children to speak complete thoughts
- Encourage children to put their thoughts in words
- Help children think things through
4. Engage children in conversations.
- Help children learn to listen attentively
- Give children practice in turn taking
- Use mealtimes as times for relaxed conversation
5. Create a literacy center in the classroom.
- Include a variety of books and books on tape
- Have places where children can snuggle up with a book by themselves
- Choose computer programs that children can use on their own to read a book or do word processing
6. Point out environmental print to children.
- Note signage during nature walks
- Discuss logos
- Ask parents to point out print in the home environment
7. Incorporate literacy in children's dramatic play.
- In the house area, include magazines, phone books, grocery lists and the like
- Add literacy related items to specialized dramatic play areas--prescription pads and eye charts to doctor's office, labeled groceries to supermarket, computer to office area, etc.
- Introduce dramatic play scenarios that focus on literacy: e.g., "Let's take the baby to the library"
8. Encourage children to make their own books.
- Focus on children's interests and likes
- Encourage children to publish their own books, using the computer, stapler, etc.
- Include children's books in library area
9. Tie literacy to art.
- Have children sign their paintings and drawings
- Illustrate art with sentence strips on which children dictate to you what their painting or drawing is about
- Have children make "do not disturb" signs to protect sculptures and constructions
10. Partner with children's families.
- Send books home for parents to read with children
- Invite parents into the classroom to read with children
- Hold workshops for families on the development of early literacy skills
