Building Strong Early Literacy Foundations

Leah Scholer, Director of Early Learning and Literacy, San Carlos School District

Strong Developmental Foundations

Early literacy development rests on a blend of foundational language, cognitive and social skills. The most critical include oral language development, such as vocabulary and expressive and receptive language, phonological awareness, alphabetic knowledge and print concepts. Equally important are executive function skills, including attention, self-regulation and working memory, which allow young children to engage meaningfully in literacy tasks. Strong early literacy instruction is developmentally appropriate, play-based and language-rich, ensuring children build skills through meaningful interaction rather than isolated drills.

Data-Informed, Child-Centered Assessment

Measuring impact requires a balanced approach that combines quantitative data with qualitative insights. Developmentally appropriate assessments, such as observational tools, formative literacy screeners and growth measures, help track progress over time without over-testing young children. Longitudinal data, including kindergarten readiness indicators and early elementary reading outcomes, provide important feedback on program effectiveness. Equally important are teacher documentation, classroom observations and family feedback, which together provide a more complete picture of children’s social, emotional and academic development.

Empowering Families as Literacy Partners

Family-engagement is most effective when it is relationship-based, culturally responsive and practical. Clear communication about how literacy develops and what families can realistically do at home builds confidence and partnership. Strategies such as family literacy nights, take-home activity kits, multilingual resources and short video or digital demonstrations help connect school and home learning. When families see their everyday routines, including talking, reading, singing and playing, as powerful literacy opportunities, engagement becomes more sustainable and meaningful.

“Strong early literacy instruction is developmentally appropriate, play-based and language-rich, ensuring children build skills through meaningful interaction rather than isolated drills.”

Purposeful Tech Integration

Technology in early learning should enhance and not replace human interaction. Effective integration prioritizes tools that support language development, creativity and accessibility, such as digital storytelling, audio supports and adaptive literacy platforms. Educators use technology intentionally for documentation, formative assessment and family communication, while maintaining clear limits on passive screen time. Professional development is essential to ensure technology aligns with developmental best practices and supports equity rather than widening opportunity gaps.

Evolving Landscape of Early Literacy

Several key trends are influencing the field of early childhood education and literacy. There is growing alignment across preschool through third grade (P–3) to ensure continuity in instructional practices and expectations. The science of reading has increased focus on explicit language and foundational skills instruction, while still emphasizing developmentally appropriate practice in early years. Equity and inclusion, particularly for multilingual learners and students with disabilities, are central considerations. Finally, the use of data-informed instruction and family-facing technology is expanding, helping educators personalize learning while strengthening school-home partnerships.

Cognitive