Emergent Literacy

Emergent literacy refers to the early skills and knowledge about reading and writing that develop gradually in young children before they can formally read. It includes abilities like recognizing letters, understanding that print carries meaning, and developing language skills through listening and talking. These foundational experiences set the stage for later reading success, as children start to make sense of symbols, explore books, and develop a love for language. Emergent literacy happens naturally through everyday interactions with print and conversation, laying the groundwork for formal literacy development in school years.