Early Literacy in Child Development

Theoretical foundations and effective teaching methods that support language and literacy development during early childhood. Teaching strategies for engaging children in integrated listening, speaking, reading, and writing experiences in culturally responsive classrooms will be explored. Gain an understanding of the foundational skills needed to support reading; the content of reading instruction; and scientifically based reading research, methods, and materials used in balanced reading instruction programs. Identify supportive family contexts that enhance children's language and literacy experiences. Second language acquisition, as well as the needs of English language learners will be examined. Educational policies and practices regarding reading instruction are analyzed.