Creating a Literacy Rich Environment
Our Story.
When my son was diagnosed with hearing loss as a newborn, we were told over and over again that it is imperative to create a language rich environment for him, especially during the ages of 0-3. Well, as you can tell, we took it to heart. As a teacher, I knew I had the skills and resources needed to support his language development at home. Having a literacy rich environment has been crucial to my son's language development and enjoyment of learning and reading. And the bonus I never saw coming?
The C O N N E C T I O N that it creates for us in our everyday life.
What is a language rich environment?
It is an environment where children are surrounded by a variety of spoken language opportunities that promote communication, dialog, and the development of language skills.
This can look like…
adults who model language and use a variety of strategies to support children’s language growth
providing a range of language experiences, such as listening to stories, singing songs, playing language games, and engaging in conversations
adults using teaching strategies to help children expand their vocabulary and use language in a meaningful way
How do you create a language rich environment?
Books and various print material
Toy rotations
Context cards with real images (like these ones!)
Musical exposure
Open ended toys (check out these toys!)
Practical life skills practice
Comfy, child friendly, decluttered areas
Printing / colouring materials
4 best tips to build a language rich environment:
Get outside!
Get down on your child’s level
Engage in songs and play daily, repetition is important for vocabulary
Books! Rotate and repeat!
Here are some tips for creating a language-rich environment in your home:
Read a variety of books daily - Ask questions, talk about the pictures, stress new words and have FUN.
Sing, sing, sing! Sing nursery rhymes for repetition, make your own songs for daily routines, just start singing!
Face to face interactions: Slow down & be truly present, get on the floor and get playing!
Narrate play and everyday life activities
Interpret your childs messages (both verbal and nonverbal)
Expand on what your child says
Exposure to new and unique experiences : the more a child sees, the more potential connections they can make within the brain
Pair the word with the image by attaching the new word to an image, the child’s brain is able to make a literal connection between the word and the object it represents
Consider a toy rotation. Children are more likely to stay with one toy for longer periods of time, allowing a more rich learning experience, as well as versatile language opportunities when less toys are within reach.
The best piece of advice, have FUN with it!
What does a language rich environment look like for you?
