The Five Practices of Early Literacy

Summer is a great time to build early literacy skills and prepare young children for a lifetime of reading. Learning to read doesn’t begin on the first day of school—it starts much earlier, and families play a vital role.

Five simple practices can help your child get ready to read: Reading, Writing, Singing, Talking, and Playing.

Reading

Reading together is the most powerful way to support early literacy. Make it a daily habit. Keep it interactive—ask questions, discuss the story, and relate it to your child’s life. If your child has questions, use it as a learning moment—look up the answers together at the library. Create a cozy reading nook and keep books within reach. Encourage your child to read independently or to stuffed animals. Surround your child with print—read signs, labels, and menus aloud. And let your child see you reading to reinforce that it’s important and enjoyable.

Writing

Reading and writing go hand-in-hand. Writing helps children understand letters, sounds, and how print represents ideas. Offer paper, crayons, pencils, or markers so writing is always accessible. Scribbles and doodles count—they’re part of the process. Help your child write familiar words like their name or simple labels. Let them see you writing, too—grocery lists, thank-you notes, or reminders. Activities like coloring or threading beads build fine motor skills, while running and climbing help strengthen the muscles used in writing.

Singing

Singing supports early literacy by helping children hear the smaller sounds in words and learn new vocabulary. Rhyme and rhythm boost memory and listening skills. Sing throughout the day—while getting dressed, cooking, or in the car. Your voice doesn’t need to be perfect—enthusiasm is what counts. Children’s artists like Raffi, Laurie Berkner, or Jim Gill offer fun music to move to. Dance with your child or use simple instruments like shakers made from dry beans in a bottle. Many picture books are also songs—try singing them for a fun twist on storytime.

Talking

Conversation is key to building vocabulary and language skills, both essential for reading. The more words children hear—especially before age three—the better prepared they are for school. Narrate your day, describe what you’re doing, and name objects. Even if your child is just cooing or babbling, respond to them to encourage back-and-forth communication. As they grow, your conversations will grow, too. Talk during meals, on walks, or at the store. Every shared moment is a chance to build understanding and connection.

Playing

Play helps children make sense of their world and supports the development of early literacy. Through play, they practice language, develop imagination, and strengthen both physical and cognitive skills. Best of all, it’s free and can happen anywhere. Cardboard boxes, kitchen utensils, or old clothes can spark imaginative games. At the library or park, encourage social play like building blocks or pretend scenarios. Give your child opportunities to play every day.

These five everyday practices—Reading, Writing, Singing, Talking, and Playing—are easy, fun, and incredibly effective at preparing your child to become a confident reader. When woven into daily routines, they help build a strong foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

Today’s blog post was written by Wendy Lehman, Head of Youth Services at RHPL.