Early literacy skills are the building blocks of future academic success and a lifetime of enjoyment from reading. Parents and nursery schools play a crucial role in fostering these skills in young children. In this article, we explore ways to support early literacy both at home and in the best nurseries in Dubai.
At home
Create a literacy-rich environment
Surround your child with books and reading materials. Have a well-stocked bookshelf, create a cozy reading nook, and make books easily accessible.
Read aloud
Regularly read books to your child from a young age. Reading aloud introduces them to new words, sounds, and stories. Encourage them to ask questions and discuss the story.
Talk about everything
Engage in conversations with your child throughout the day. Ask open-ended questions and encourage them to express their thoughts and ideas. These conversations help build vocabulary and comprehension.
Sing songs and rhymes
Singing nursery rhymes and songs with your child not only makes learning fun but also helps them develop phonemic awareness, a critical skill for reading.
Visit the library
Take your child to the local library regularly. Libraries offer a wealth of children’s books and often host storytelling sessions and reading programs.
Encourage writing: Provide opportunities for your child to practice writing, even if it’s just scribbles. Offer paper, markers, crayons, and other writing tools to foster fine motor skills.
Be a reading role model
Let your child see you reading regularly. Children are more likely to develop a love for reading if they see their parents and caregivers doing the same.
In nursery school
Storytime
Nursery schools often incorporate regular storytime sessions into their curriculum. Encourage your child’s participation and discuss the stories afterward.
Library corner
Nursery schools may have a library corner with a collection of age-appropriate books. Encourage your child to explore and choose books independently.
Phonemic awareness
Nursery school teachers may introduce phonemic awareness activities, such as rhyming games and letter recognition. Reinforce these skills at home through playful activities.
Literacy centers
Some nursery schools have literacy centers with activities like letter matching, word games, and storytelling props. Encourage your child to engage with these materials.
Field trips
Nursery schools often organize field trips to local libraries or bookstores. Participate in these outings to reinforce the idea that reading is an exciting part of life.
