Literacy Begins at Birth: Why Early Language Skills Matter for Kindergarten Readiness
At OberlinKids, we believe that every child deserves a strong start—and that journey begins long before the first day of kindergarten. From a baby’s first coo to a toddler’s bedtime story, early literacy and pre-literacy skills form the foundation for future learning, communication, and school success.
Here’s why it matters—and how you can make a difference from day one.
What Are Pre-Literacy Skills?
Pre-literacy skills are the building blocks that prepare children to read and write. These include:
Language development (talking, listening, understanding)
Vocabulary growth
Print awareness (understanding that words on a page have meaning)
Phonological awareness (recognizing sounds and rhythms in language)
Storytelling and comprehension
Fine motor skills (like turning pages and scribbling)
Children begin developing these skills through everyday interactions—long before they learn to read printed words.
Why It Matters for School Readiness
Children who develop strong pre-literacy skills are more likely to:
Enter kindergarten with a larger vocabulary
Understand how books work and how to express their thoughts
Follow directions and participate in classroom routines
Learn to read more easily and with greater confidence
Without a strong literacy foundation, children may start school at a disadvantage, making it harder to catch up later.
Brain Growth and Early Literacy
Did you know that 90% of brain development happens before age 5?
During these early years, children are most sensitive to language and literacy exposure.
Reading, singing, and talking help build neural pathways that support future learning.
Early exposure to books and stories fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
How Families Can Support Literacy from Birth
You don’t need fancy tools—just daily habits filled with love and language:
Read aloud every day, even to infants
Talk about what you see, hear, and do throughout the day
Sing songs and rhymes to build sound awareness
Let children handle books, scribble, and “read” to you
Visit the library or participate in play-based literacy programs
Every moment becomes a learning opportunity when language is part of your daily routine.
How OberlinKids Supports Early Literacy
We’re here to help your child grow through:
Free Community Classroom playgroups with literacy-rich activities
Book giveaways, Literacy & learning Kits, and lending libraries
Developmental screenings focused on communication and reading readiness
Parent workshops that share tips, tools, and strategies
Access to culturally responsive resources that reflect your family’s values and stories
The Bottom Line
Literacy starts at birth, not in kindergarten.
By nurturing your child’s language and pre-reading skills early, you give them the tools to thrive in school—and in life.
