What is meant by the term "emergent literacy"?

The term "emergent literacy" refers to the early stages of literacy development that occur before a child is able to read and write in conventional ways. During this phase, children engage with language and literacy through activities such as listening to stories, playing with sounds, and recognizing letters and words in their environment. Emergent literacy encompasses a range of skills and knowledge that are foundational for later reading and writing success.

This concept is significant because it highlights that literacy development begins much earlier than formal education. It allows educators and caregivers to focus on fostering an interest in reading and writing from infancy and during the preschool years, laying the groundwork for more advanced literacy skills as children grow. Recognizing these early signs of literacy, such as a child's ability to make meaning from pictures or to understand that print carries messages, is crucial in guiding their development toward proficient reading and writing.

Understanding emergent literacy also emphasizes the importance of creating rich language environments that support these early experiences, encouraging interactions that promote vocabulary development and comprehension skills essential for later literacy achievement.