Signs of an Emerging Reader

An exciting transition from the preconventional stage occurs - typically between the ages of four and six - when the signs of an emerging reader arise. Although most at this developmental stage rely on the visual aspect of books, emerging readers tend to play the role of active participants during story time.

Memorization of beloved books should not surprise parents. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? is a terrific example and a treasure by many children.
 

In fact, due to the ability to recognize names and words, emerging readers have the potential to read books with simplistic content, such as those exhibiting patterns.

Connections are often made between books and the child's personal experiences. Children begin understanding the concept of rhyming and enjoy playing word games.

This stage is often fleeting due to the emerging reader's excitement and extreme desire to learn to read. Despite the fast moving stage, parents can still assist their emerging reader, utilizing tips that will help to support their child's literacy journey.

Encouraging Your Preconventional Reader

As noted previously, preconventional readers are not reading, per se; however, such little ones show an extreme interest in letters, signs, logos, illustrations, page turning and more. As your child's caregiver, what can you do to encourage your preconventional reader?

• Read books to your child that emphasize rhythm, rhyme and repetition.
• Select books that appeal to your child's age, choosing those with appealing illustrations.
• Equate reading to a time of fun and relaxation. While it is okay to request minimal talking during storytime, do not set rigid boundaries for your early reader, demanding all questions for the end. Answer them along with the story.
• Encourage active participation during storytime. Allow your child to hold the book, turning the pages when appropriate. Additionally, ask your child to read repetitive lines or chorus with you.
• Point out words and letters that your child consistently sees daily while out and about or in a book – such as “stop,” “and,” “up” and “go.”
• Be creative! Make flash cards with simple sight words and emphasize positive reinforcement. A simple “good job!” goes far. Consider reward stickers and stamps. This will encourage you little one to continue his or her reading journey. 

A child with a healthy interest in early literacy is well on his or her way to the next stage, the emergent reader.

Early Literacy: Preconventional Readers

Children develop at their own pace both physically and intellectually, although not too far off from one another. As with stages in childhood, reading too has its own steps.

Somewhere between the ages of three and five, children begin displaying an interest in reading and books, primarily focusing on print. Preconventional readers tend to flock to stories containing the three Rs -- rhythm, rhyme and repetition. While they are not actually reading, they enjoy participating along with the story as it is being read aloud. These readers want to turn pages of books, admiring illustrations. Many at this stage recognize their name, know the names of letters, and have an interest in traffic signs, logos and the like.

Such readers are at the very beginning of this exciting literary journey, known as early literacy, so what can parents do to encourage their child's development?