Early Language & Literacy KnowledgeBase

This KnowledgeBase archive includes content and external links that were accurate and relevant as of September 30, 2019.

The Early Language and Literacy KnowledgeBase is an online resource supporting language and literacy development in early learners from birth through age eight. Its focus is to support parents and caregivers in helping early learners with their language and literacy development, and teachers in enhancing their instruction for early learners from pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3.

Task 2: The Connection Between Creative Expression/Active Engagement and Learning to Read

Guideline: Language and literacy development among early learners is a multi-dimensional process. One dimension is providing for creative expression exhibited through drawing, music, sounds, and play. Preschool-age early learners will demonstrate such expression individually and through group activities. This task provides resources for educators of early learners that may assist them to enhance instructional practices promoting creative expression.

resources

PRACTICAL TIPS

Child Development: Creativity in Young Children

This link to a North Carolina Cooperative Extensive Service document describes for parents and educators of early learners the creative process in young children.

The Creative Classroom: Time and Space for Self-Expression

This link to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Building Blocks website provides educators of early learners practical tips for creating time and space for creative expression.

REFERENCES

Using Engagement Strategies to Facilitate Children's Learning and Success

Authored by Judy Jablon and Michael Wilkinson, this article describes what engagement is, and why as a teaching strategy it is important to the early learner's success.

Young Children and the Arts: Making Creative Connections

This link is to the report of the Task Force on Children's Learning and the Arts. The task force was an activity of the Arts Education Partnership (formerly known as the Goals 2000 Arts Education Partnership) formerly administered by the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies through a cooperative agreement with the National Endowment for the Arts and the U.S. Department of Education. Though the report dates to 1998 it provides developmentally appropriate benchmarks for arts activities, birth to age 8. Parents, caregivers, and educators of early learners may find the content useful.