St Louis County Library

Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they can actually read or write. The period between birth and five years old is the time to lay the foundation for future success in school. St. Louis County Library is committed to promoting early literacy within the community. Incorporate these skills into your daily interaction with your child. Enjoy our story time programs that promote early literacy skills your child needs to enter school ready to learn to read.

Five Strategies for Creating a Reader

The following activities not only are fun but also actually help your child acquire skills needed to become a great reader.

• Reading
• Find materials that you and your child will be enthusiastic to read and share. Make sure that time for sharing books is an enjoyable time for both of you.

• Singing
• Playing around with animal sounds and singing songs or nursery rhymes is a great way to create a reader, and you can do it anywhere.

• Playing
• Encourage imaginative play to help stimulate your child's creativity. Playing with puppets is a great way to start.

• Talking
• Quite simply, talk to your child, no matter what age, and encourage your child to talk to you.  The bonds you forge will last a lifetime.

• Writing
• Provide your child with safe opportunities to handle a pencil or crayon. Scribbles are the first form of writing for young children.