Before a child reads their first word, their brain is already laying the foundation for a lifetime of literacy. From babbling and scribbling to recognizing letters and storytelling, early literacy is a journey that begins long before kindergarten—and every caregiver has the power to guide it.
In Heartfelt Adventures with Coucou & Jah, we see these early steps come to life. Whether Coucou is reading aloud to her little brother or singing songs with Elephant, she’s showing that literacy isn’t just about books—it’s about connection, curiosity, and confidence.
What Is Early Literacy?
Early literacy refers to the skills children develop before they can read or write in a traditional sense. These include:
- Print awareness – Understanding that printed words have meaning.
- Phonological awareness – Recognizing and playing with the sounds of spoken language.
- Vocabulary – Knowing and using a wide range of words.
- Narrative skills – Being able to describe events and tell simple stories.
- Letter knowledge – Recognizing letters and knowing their names and sounds.
You don’t need flashcards or fancy apps to support these skills—just your voice, your time, and a little imagination.
Everyday Moments That Build Literacy
Here are simple, powerful ways to nurture literacy through daily routines:
1.
Talk, Talk, Talk
Narrate your day. Ask questions, even if your child can’t answer yet. “Look at the big red ball!” or “What do you think Coucou will do next?”
2.
Sing Together
Songs break language into smaller parts and help children remember sounds and patterns. Try singing Coucou’s favorite tunes or make up your own!
3.
Read Every Day
Books expose children to new vocabulary and story structures. Let them choose the book—even if it’s the same one five times in a row. Repetition builds confidence.
4.
Celebrate Scribbles
When your child draws or scribbles, they’re practicing pre-writing. Give them paper, crayons, and space to express themselves.
5.
Play Pretend
Pretend play builds storytelling and vocabulary. Let your child lead, whether they’re pretending to be a lion like Jah or a librarian like Coucou.
Free Download: “Read with Me!” Checklist
Encourage daily literacy-building moments with this simple checklist you can hang on your fridge.
Final Thoughts
Every child’s literacy journey is unique, but all children benefit from love, language, and encouragement. By creating a home full of stories, songs, and support, you’re helping your little one grow from scribbles to sentences—and far beyond.
Stay curious, stay kind,
The Heartfelt Adventures Team