Author(s): Judy Hamer

Bethlehem Tertiary Institute

Literacy in early childhood education is set to become a critical part of centre programmes in the near future with the development of a cross-sector long-term National Literacy Goal, the inclusion of literacy in the early childhood Strategic Plan and growing government and community interest in the area in general. The aim of this handbook is to provide early childhood educators with the information they need to incorporate literacy into their centres in appropriate ways which reflect the broader principles, goals and aspirations of Te Whariki and their centre community. The book examines the theoretical rationales for sound literacy policy development and debate, and provides practical frameworks for implementing appropriate and relevant literacy practices in early childhood centers. The Handbook is written in straight forward language, and includes many illustrations and practical literacy ideas. It provides a range of examples for weaving literacy resources throughout the early childhood centre environment, integrating literacy into the routines and experiences of the centre, and creating and building on informal literacy opportunities with examples for infants, toddlers and young children. With its close link to Te Whariki, this handbook provides all the information educators need for appropriately incorporating and building on existing literacy practices in their centres.