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How Preschool Builds Early Literacy Skills at Home and School

Early literacy development is one of the most important foundations children build during the preschool years (ages 3–5). Literacy at this stage is not about reading perfectly or writing long sentences—it’s about developing a love for language, books, sounds, and communication.

At Golden City CDC, Inc., our preschool program supports these skills both in the classroom and through partnerships with families at home.

What Is Early Literacy?

Early literacy includes the skills children develop before they can read and write independently. These skills grow naturally through everyday experiences, play, and meaningful interactions.

Key early literacy skills include:

  • Listening and understanding language

  • Recognizing sounds and rhymes

  • Learning new vocabulary

  • Identifying letters and their sounds

  • Enjoying books and storytelling

  • Beginning writing through drawing and scribbling

How Preschool Supports Literacy at School

Preschool classrooms at our Child Care Center are intentionally designed to support language and literacy throughout the day, not just during “reading time.”

1. Daily Storytime and Read-Alouds

Teachers read books aloud using expressive voices, ask questions, and encourage discussion.

This helps children:

  • Build vocabulary

  • Strengthen listening skills

  • Understand story structure

  • Develop a love for books

2. Language-Rich Conversations

Teachers engage children in meaningful conversations during play, meals, and daily routines.

These interactions help children:

  • Learn new words

  • Practice speaking in complete sentences

  • Express ideas and emotions clearly

3. Phonics and Sound Awareness

Preschool activities focus on:

  • Rhyming words

  • Identifying beginning sounds

  • Playing sound-matching games

These playful activities build phonological awareness, a key skill for reading readiness.

4. Letter and Print Exposure

Children interact with print daily through:

  • Labels around the classroom

  • Name cards

  • Alphabet charts

  • Simple words in books and signs

This helps children understand that print has meaning.

5. Early Writing Experiences

Preschoolers practice writing through:

  • Drawing pictures

  • Tracing shapes and letters

  • Writing their names

  • Using crayons, markers, and paint

These activities strengthen fine motor skills, confidence, and creativity.

How Preschool Supports Literacy at Home

Strong literacy development happens when school and home work together. Our preschool program encourages families to continue learning outside the classroom.

Parents are encouraged to:

  • Read with their child daily, even for a few minutes

  • Talk about pictures and stories in books

  • Sing songs and nursery rhymes

  • Encourage storytelling about daily activities

  • Provide crayons, paper, and books

  • Model reading at home (children learn by observing adults)

Golden City CDC may also share book suggestions, learning tips, and progress updates to help families stay involved.

Why Early Literacy Matters

Developing literacy skills early helps children:

  • Build confidence

  • Strengthen communication skills

  • Prepare for kindergarten success

  • Develop a lifelong love of learning

Children who feel positive about reading and language are more likely to succeed academically and socially.

Every Child Learns at Their Own Pace

It’s important to remember that preschoolers develop literacy skills at different rates. At Golden City CDC, we focus on:

  • Encouragement, not pressure

  • Play-based learning

  • Individualized support

  • Building curiosity and confidence

Early literacy should feel fun, engaging, and meaningful for every child.

Need More Information?

For more information on how Golden City CDC, Inc., a licensed Child Care Center, supports early learning and families, please visit:
https://www.goldencitycdc.com/