Language and Literacy for the Early Years

This core text for early childhood studies and early years students focuses on communication, language and literacy in the pre-school years. The text begins by discussing language acquisition and development covering development theory, talking with babies and the factors that affect development. It goes on to give guidance on how to support children′s language acquisition through rhymes, songs, story books and storytelling. Finally, it examines the roots of literacy and asks ′what comes before phonics?′ Interactive activities are included throughout to engage the reader and research focus features help students make essential links between theory and practice.

Key Features

• An accessible text covering a key topic
• Includes activities and features to engage the reader with the text
• Essential reading for early childhood language, literacy and communication modules
• Gives practical guidance on supporting children′s language acquisition

Sally Neaum is a lecturer in Early Childhood, and teaches Primary English in initial teacher training. She has worked as a nursery and primary school teacher, as an advisor in early years and inclusion. She has an M.Ed in Educational Psychology and Special Educational Needs and her doctoral research was in the pedagogy of early literacy.