Early Childhood Experiences in Language Arts

Book excerpt: "Early Childhood Experiences in the Language Arts: Early Literacy," 8e is a tried and true reference with a goal to produce teachers who matter, teachers who are prepared, and teachers who are knowledgeable companions, exploring and sharing literature and language experiences with young children. In order to achieve this, the book encourages reflective thinking, allows practice of skills, and inspires the collection of ideas for future use. Now in it's eighth edition, there are many new features and benefits that will arm the reader with valuable information they can take directly into practice. The book includes the most current national legislative efforts, as well as addressing public concern and interest in young children's language and foundational literacy skills. It also thoroughly addresses the interrelation of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and viewing language art's areas. While taking a high level view that paints a comprehensive picture of the most important aspects of teaching early literacy, the book also takes a practical approach. The reader will learn very specific activities that include stories, poems, finger plays, and puppetry that they can utilize in a classroom setting. They will also learn curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, with the theory followed up by deliberate "how-to" suggestions. Rounding out this comprehensive book, cultural diversity is addressed, as well as program planning ideas for English language learners and special needs children.