What activities can children engage in during the Emergent Stage of reading and spelling development?

During the Emergent Stage of reading and spelling development, children are beginning to develop an understanding of the functions of print and letters, which often manifests in activities that emphasize exploration and creativity. "Pretend" writing and actual early writing activities are crucial at this stage as they allow children to express themselves, make sense of the writing process, and engage with the concept of writing in a low-pressure environment.

At this level, children may scribble, use invented spelling, or write familiar words, as they are beginning to connect sounds with letters. These activities promote their literacy development by encouraging phonemic awareness, letter recognition, and the idea that writing conveys meaning. Engaging in pretend writing helps them practice these skills without the expectation of producing standard written forms, fostering a positive attitude toward literacy and encouraging further development as they grow.