ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of several factors associated with becoming a successful reader. Literacy is a continuum that begins at birth and continues throughout life. This perspective acknowledges that reading and writing develop concurrently and interrelatedly in young children. The single most important literacy activity for building a strong foundation for literacy development is having an adult who reads aloud to the child on a continuing basis. Providing time for reading and writing at home and at school facilitates the development of literacy skills. Having play corners where writing materials are available will support children in developing writing skills. Children must have opportunities to engage actively in a variety of purposeful literacy activities, including occasions to read, write, and talk about text with a more knowledgeable mentor. Phonemic awareness-conscious attention to the sound elements of language-has been identified as a critical predictor of later literacy.
