Literacy

The Importance of Oral Language

Language is critical for children’s literacy, social and academic success, and for developing friendships and social relationships. (Chow, Ekholm & Coleman, 2018).

Why it is important to support young children’s oral language learning:

• Oral language is powerful in creating new knowledge and central to the processes of learning.
• Strong oral language skills are linked to children’s literacy, social and emotional outcomes.
• Language experiences before the age of 6 years help form powerful brain connections used for language and thinking.

The development of language in the early years of a child’s life is critical. By the time a child begins formal schooling, they need to have mastered the basic structures of language and be proficient and effective communicators (Vukelich, Christie & Enz, 2008). Children learn language through rich and meaningful interactions with others and involves listening to, and interacting with, more sophisticated and supportive language users. Children learn about language when they begin to explore how language is used to communicate their needs, wants, feelings and desires. They learn how language works during everyday activities (e.g., through play, shared storybook reading, talk), and when engaging in daily routines. Children learn through language when interacting with a wide range of people including peers, caregivers, siblings, family members, teachers and educators.

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Initiating converstaions with your children at home is a great way to build upon their oral language skills. Here are some conversation starters that you can enjoy as a family.

Term 2 Holidays

As we enter the Term 2 holiday don't forget to keep on reading. Enjoy the cold nights cuddled up with a good book.