Why this skill matters
Each skill area supports everyday confidence, communication, and play. Growth here often shows up as small, repeated gains rather than sudden leaps.
Early Literacy
At a glance: Book exploration, recognising letters, rhyming, and pre-reading skills. Watch for signs like your toddler picking up a book and 'reading' it to a stuffed animal, pointing to letters on signs, finishing familiar rhymes in songs, or asking to hear the same story again and again. These early experiences with words and books lay the groundwork for reading readiness well before formal instruction begins. Browse 86 related activities below.
How to support it through play
Short, repeated activities usually build this skill better than one long session. Keep the challenge light and the interaction playful.
Signs it is growing
Look for slightly longer engagement, smoother coordination, or more willingness to try the skill again tomorrow.
Related behaviour guides
Common age stages
Going further with Early Literacy
What advanced looks like
Your child recognises letters on signs, ‘reads’ familiar books from memory, rhymes spontaneously, or asks what written words say. They may point to text and ask ‘What does that spell?’
How to nurture through play
Follow their interest without pushing formal reading instruction. Point out letters in the environment, play rhyming games, let them ‘write’ shopping lists with scribbles, and read books with rich, varied language.
A note on uneven development
A child who recognises letters and sounds may not yet have the fine motor control to form them. Pre-reading skills can develop well ahead of pre-writing skills — this is completely typical.
What the research says
Research from the NAGC supports emergent literacy through play rather than formal instruction before age five. Children who explore print naturally — through books, signs, and play-writing — develop stronger reading foundations than those drilled on letter recognition.
Get weekly developmental activity ideas
One email a week with age-appropriate activities, developmental tips, and practical play ideas. No spam, unsubscribe any time.