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90% of a child’s brain capacity develops
before age five.

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By age three, a child’s brain has formed
three quadrillion connections!

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This period of rapid mental growth
is the best time for children

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to learn skills
for early reading success.

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Caregivers can help young children
develop early literacy skills

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by using these five practices
developed by early childhood experts.

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1. Read.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics
recommends reading to children

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for 20 minutes each day.

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2. Sing.

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Singing is an enjoyable way for children
to learn the sounds that make up words

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3. Talk.

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Have back and forth conversations
with words or actions.

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4. Play.

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Playing fosters imaginative,
flexible and symbolic thinking.

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5. Write.

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Writing encourages
fine motor skill development,

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including holding writing utensils.

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Look for times to work
these five practices

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into your daily routine,
like diaper changing time,

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bed time, car rides, bath time,
or getting dressed.

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Just a few minutes each day
of intentional skill building

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can help the children in your life
be ready to read!

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Visit herrickdl.org/EarlyLiteracy
for more information

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on these five literacy practices.