Literacy
Key points + how to support Literacy
There are two aspects of Literacy
- Reading
- Writing
Reading
Reading focuses on connecting sounds to letters and being able to blend them together. A lot of milestones in this area also relate to rhyming and showing an interest in illustrations. One milestone for this area (aged 30-50 months) is to show awareness of rhyme and alliteration.
The first milestone for reading is for ages 0-11 months, it is enjoy looking at books and other printed material with familiar people. As the child approaches the 22-36 month category, targets become about repeating and understanding stories. These targets vary from simply having favourite stories or rhymes, to Fills in the missing word or phrase in a known rhyme, story or game, e.g. ‘Humpty Dumpty sat on a …’.
Writing
Writing focuses more on being able to form letters and give meanings to the marks they create. One of the final milestones in the EYFS (aged 40-60 months) is to write their own name and other things such as labels.
Writing milestones start at 22-36 months. Children’s later writing is based on skills and understandings which they develop as babies and toddlers. Before they can write, they need to learn to use spoken language to communicate. Later they learn to write down the words they can say. The only target for this age group in writing is to distinguish between the different marks they make.
Home learning resources
Reading
If you don't have access to a wide range of books at home, the library can be a great place for your child to explore stories and reading! You can sign up for a library card or Hillingdon first card if you live in Hillingdon. A Hillingdon first card acts as a library card for every library in Hillingdon! The local libraries are currently open but working as a click and collect service. You can browse and reserve a book to pick up using the link below!
Check our our recommendations for books to support you with different stages in your child's life, like potty training!
Writing
Aged 22-36 months
Listen and support what your child tells you about the marks they make. Draw attention to marks, signs and symbols in the environment and talk about what they represent. Ensure this involves recognition of English and other relevant scripts, e.g. Chinese script on a shopping bag.
Aged 30-50 months
Simple drawing and mark making activities can have a big impact on your child's ability to form letters! Practice drawing lines and shapes regularly! You can also introduce a range of ways to make marks. Pencils may get boring, so why not try spray bottles with paint, rubbers, straws etc.!
Website links
