Drawn from research the authors gathered in the Home-School Study of Language and Literacy Development, this enlightening book demonstrates the impact of early interactions on kindergarten language and literacy skills. Readers will enter the homes and schools of over 70 young children to observe their conversations and interactions at ages 3, 4, and 5. Through case studies and transcripts, readers will discover how families talk to children during everyday activities and how teachers support children's literacy development throughout the school day. It's an ideal book for educators, administrators, parents, and anyone involved in shaping young children's early language and literacy skills.

In this fascinating book, you'll travel into the homes and schools of over 70 young children from diverse backgrounds and observe parent—child and teacher-child interactions. Through research gathered in the Home—School Study of Language and Literacy Development, the authors share with you the relationship they've found between these critical, early interactions and children's kindergarten language and literacy skills. In each chapter, you'll read actual transcripts of parent-child and teacher-child interactions, recognize how these interactions relate to later development, and get suggestions for supporting children's language and literacy development.

Review

“Vivid descriptions and thoughtful explanations of language development in young children. The book has great value to social scientists studying this enticing field. It also conveys a valuable message to parents and early childhood educators that their everyday interactions with small children form the abilities they will need to achieve literacy as they progress through formal schooling.” —Edward Zigler, Ph.D. (06/08/2006)