Early literacy is one of the most essential building blocks in a child’s development. From birth to age five, a child’s brain grows at an incredible rate, making these years critical for language and literacy development. Research shows that children exposed to books, stories, and language-rich environments during these formative years are more likely to develop strong reading and writing skills, setting them up for success in school and beyond.
But what exactly is early literacy, and how can families integrate it into their busy daily lives? Let’s explore the importance of early literacy, the long-term benefits, and simple ways to make reading a daily habit—even with a packed schedule.
 
Why Early Literacy Matters
Early literacy is not just about teaching young children how to read. Instead, it focuses on building the skills they need to become confident readers later on. These include:
✅ Phonemic Awareness – Recognizing sounds and how they form words
✅ Vocabulary Development – Learning new words through conversations, books, and storytelling
✅ Comprehension Skills – Understanding and making sense of what is being read
✅ Print Awareness – Recognizing letters, words, and that text carries meaning
 
What the Research Says
• Children who are read to at least five days a week enter kindergarten knowing 1.4 million more words than those who are not exposed to books regularly (Ohio State University).
• 90% of a child’s brain is developed before the age of five, making early exposure to language critical for academic success (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University).
• A strong early literacy foundation is linked to higher graduation rates, better job opportunities, and increased lifetime earnings (Annie E. Casey Foundation).
The best part? Parents and caregivers are a child’s first and most important teachers. You don’t need a formal curriculum to support early literacy—just daily interactions, books, and conversations can make a significant impact!
 
How to Incorporate Literacy into a Busy Schedule
We understand that modern life is busy, and finding time to sit down and read every single day can feel overwhelming. But literacy isn’t just about sitting with a book—it can be woven into daily activities in small, meaningful ways!
1. Make Books Easily Accessible 📚
Keep books in areas where your child spends the most time—next to their bed, in the living room, in the car, or even in the kitchen. Having books within reach encourages children to pick them up independently.
Tip: Create a “Book Nook” at home with cozy pillows and a small shelf of books for your child to explore!
2. Talk and Narrate Your Day 🗣️
Language development starts with conversation! Describe what you’re doing throughout the day, ask open-ended questions, and engage your child in discussions, even if they aren’t fully verbal yet.
Example:
Instead of saying, “Let’s put on your shoes,” try, “Which shoes should we wear today—the red ones or the blue ones?” This encourages decision-making and vocabulary growth.
3. Use Storytime as a Wind-Down Routine ⏳
A short bedtime story (even just 5 minutes!) can become a cherished nightly ritual. Reading before bed helps children wind down, feel secure, and develop a love for books.
Tip: If bedtime is too rushed, try reading during breakfast, after school, or even while waiting at appointments.
4. Listen to Audiobooks and Story Podcasts 🎧
On-the-go families can turn car rides or quiet time into literacy moments by listening to kid-friendly audiobooks or storytelling podcasts like:
•🎧 “Storynory” (classic fairy tales & original stories)
•📖 “Little Stories for Tiny People” (creative short stories for kids)
•🚗 “Circle Round” (folktales from around the world)
These help children develop listening comprehension skills while making travel time more engaging!
5. Let Your Child “Read” to You 🎭
Even if your child isn’t reading yet, let them pretend to read by describing pictures or making up a story. Encouraging storytelling helps build confidence and language skills!
Tip: Ask them, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Can you tell me a new ending?” to spark creativity.
 
Finding Age-Appropriate Books for Your Child
Looking for great books to start with? Here are a few recommendations for each age group:
📘 0-12 Months: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.
📙 1-2 Years: Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell, Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill
📕 3-4 Years: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney
📗 5 Years: The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

📚 What are some of your child’s favorite books? Share them in the comments below! ⬇️

​The Importance of Recognizing Black History Month in Early Childhood Education
 
Every February, Black History Month provides a dedicated time to recognize, reflect, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage, struggles, and achievements of Black individuals throughout history. While Black history should be incorporated into education year-round, this month offers a special opportunity to highlight contributions that have shaped our world—including the field of early childhood education.
 
For young children, representation and historical awareness are essential components of learning. Introducing children to diverse cultures, leaders, and innovators from a young age builds a foundation of inclusion, empathy, and respect. At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we are dedicated to ensuring that Black history is not just a lesson in the past, but a living, ongoing part of our curriculum that shapes the way children see themselves and others.
 
Why Recognizing Black History Month Matters
 
Understanding and Appreciating Diversity
 
Children are naturally curious, and early exposure to diverse cultures helps them develop acceptance and appreciation for different backgrounds. Black History Month provides an opportunity to introduce young learners to stories of resilience, achievement, and cultural richness.
 
By teaching about influential Black educators, scientists, inventors, and activists, we send a powerful message: Everyone’s contributions matter. Representation in education is critical for boosting self-esteem and encouraging inclusion among all children.
 
Highlighting the Role of Black Leaders in Education
 
Many Black educators, activists, and scholars have paved the way for educational equity in the United States. Without their work, early childhood education would look very different today. Here are just a few key figures who shaped the field:
 
Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955)
Founder of Bethune-Cookman University, she dedicated her life to ensuring Black children had access to education and believed that learning was the key to empowerment and success.
 
Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark (1917-1983)
A pioneering psychologist who conducted the famous Doll Test, which revealed how racial segregation negatively impacted children’s self-perception. Her research played a major role in ending segregation in U.S. schools through the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case.
 
Dr. Edmund Gordon (b. 1921)
A key figure in early education reform, Dr. Gordon was one of the creators of the Head Start program, which provides comprehensive early childhood education to underserved communities.
 
 Fannie C. Williams (1882-1980)
A leader in early childhood education, Williams worked tirelessly to improve kindergarten programs and curriculum development for Black children, advocating for equal access to quality early education.
 
By recognizing and teaching about these leaders, we not only honor their legacy but also inspire future generations of learners, educators, and advocates.
 
The goal is to create an inclusive, respectful learning environment where all children see themselves reflected in history and are encouraged to dream big.
  
Recognizing Black History Month in early childhood education is not just about teaching history—it’s about celebrating culture, encouraging diversity, and building a more inclusive future.
 
By honoring the achievements of Black educators, scientists, artists, and leaders, we ensure that children grow up with a broader, richer understanding of the world.
 
At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we are committed to fostering a space where every child feels seen, heard, and valued—not just in February, but every single day.