How do emergent children typically engage with reading and spelling?

Emergent children are typically in the early stages of literacy development, and during this phase, they do not read or spell using conventional methods. Instead, they engage with reading and spelling in a more exploratory manner. This involves experimenting with letters, sounds, and words without adhering to established rules. Their interactions with books may involve looking at pictures, telling stories based on images, or attempting to write using invented spelling, which reflects their understanding of phonetics rather than traditional spelling norms.

This behavior is a natural part of their learning process, indicating that they are beginning to grasp the concepts of print and language structure, even if they do not yet exhibit fluency or accuracy. Their focus is on making sense of language rather than adhering to conventional methods, which is a crucial stepping stone in their literacy journey. Understanding this phase helps educators tailor their instruction to support and nurture the emergent skills these children are developing.