Exploring Early Literacy and Phonics Skills: Interview with Nicky Turner
Nov 3, 2023
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Nicky Turner, an educational professional, discusses the importance of early literacy and phonics skills, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach. They highlight the significance of storytelling in early education, the power of repetition in storytelling, and the connection between physical development and literacy progress. The importance of incorporating music, rhyme, and broad experiences is also emphasized.
Listening skills and sound discrimination are crucial for early literacy and phonics development.
Storytelling enhances literacy skills, language development, empathy, problem-solving, and understanding.
Incorporating music, rhythm, and rhyme into daily routines can improve language skills, sound recognition, and overall engagement.
Deep dives
The Importance of Listening Skills
Listening skills are a crucial foundation for early literacy and phonics development. Children need to learn how to listen, focus on a speaker, and remember information. Sound discrimination is also essential as children need to be able to differentiate between similar sounds in order to succeed in phonics. Creating a language-rich environment with four to five stories a day can help close the vocabulary gap and expose children to a wide range of words.
The Power of Storytelling
Storytelling plays a vital role in early years education. It not only enhances literacy skills and language development, but also fosters empathy, problem-solving, and understanding the world. Storytime should be a regular activity throughout the day, offering opportunities for children to engage with narratives, ask questions, and explore different themes. Reading four to five stories a day can significantly contribute to closing the language gap and developing a love for books.
The Role of Music, Rhythm, and Rhyme
Music, rhythm, and rhyme have valuable benefits for early childhood education. They stimulate language development, enhance memory, and promote phonemic awareness. Incorporating songs, rhymes, and musical activities into daily routines can improve children's language skills, boost their ability to recognize sounds, and increase their overall engagement. Prioritizing music, rhythm, and rhyme in the early years classroom can enhance learning experiences and create a joyful atmosphere for children.
The importance of story language and creativity
Story language is crucial for children to develop their own storytelling skills. By listening to stories and engaging in imaginative play, children can become familiar with storytelling elements and step into the perspectives of different characters. It is important for educators to create a storytelling-rich environment that encourages children's imagination and creativity.
The role of physical development in early phonics
Physical development, such as cross-lateral movements and primitive reflexes, can impact children's phonics skills. Engaging in physical activities, songs, and rhymes not only supports auditory and visual memory but also enhances language development, articulation of sounds, and fine motor skills. Incorporating music, movement, and physical play can contribute to a holistic approach to early literacy and provide a foundation for future reading and writing abilities.
Nicky Turner, from the Astrea Multi-Academy Trust, joins us in our new Early Excellence studio as we explore the vital importance of supporting early literacy and phonics skills effectively.
