Essentials of Literacy from 0-7: Children's Journeys into Literacy

In this book, the authors provide students and practitioners with the necessary tools to teach literacy 0-7 through a range of different approaches. They set out why these approaches are important and how to introduce them in ways which are positive for children. The authors guide the reader through finger rhymes, action songs, poetry cards and the introduction of nursery rhymes as well as theoretical topics such as the idea of the 'whole child', observation, communication with and without words, and brain development. The book aims to develop practitioner understanding of how children develop and learn in general, and emphasizes the importance of knowledge about child development in all its aspects in order to best support them. This includes consideration of the unique child, positive relationships and enabling environments. The text is grounded in current research and literature as well as the UK documents, Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS); Excellence for all 3-18; Foundation Stage; and, 3-7 years. This book is relevant for teachers, teaching assistants and childminders working with children from birth to seven years in nursery and primary schools, children's centres, foundation units and the home. It will be an essential resource for Early Years students at all levels. This includes those studying for Early Years Practitioner Status (EYPS), all routes of teacher training (QTS, PGCE, GGTP and SCITT), as well as students of Foundation Degrees and (BA) Early Childhood Studies degrees. The book also serves as an introductory text for those studying at MA level.

Table of Contents:
Introduction Introducing the Essentials of Literacy Observing Children in Enabling Environments for Communication, Language and Literature Baby Songs Mark Making and Writing Action Songs Action Songs Nursery Rhymes Poetry Cards

Review :
'The book is well designed and clearly written and is illustrated throughout with colour photographs illustrating the practice being discussed. It will provide teachers and students with much food for thought as they grapple with the latest government initiatives' - Literacy 'This excellent publication challenges and supports the reader to educate children in the deepest sense...This book is highly recommended reading for all professionals working in the field of early education and childcare' - Early Years Update 'The authors stress the importance of a whole-child approach to teaching communication, language and literacy, by introducing learning experiences in a positive way for children and their families...this is an accessible book, with more than 100 photos, aimed at teachers, teaching assistants, all Level 3 practitioners and childminders in all settings, from home learning environments to children's centres' - Nursery World