SEEDS of Emergent Literacy

 

The SEEDS of Emergent Literacy curriculum, developed by the University of Minnesota Center for Early Education and Development, has been incorporated into the Pre-Kindergarten classrooms at Children’s Discovery Academy, ensuring Kindergarten readiness.

What is literacy?

Literacy is the ability to read, write and talk leading to the ability to communicate and learn.

What is emergent literacy?

The view that literacy begins at birth and is encouraged through participation with adults in meaningful activities. 

 

The SEEDS classrooms at Children’s Discovery Academy include the following key elements of emergent literacy:

 

Literacy Rich Classroom

• Daily Schedule (displayed at the child’s viewing level – using both pictures and words.) 
• Centers 
• Thematic Curriculum & Lesson Plans 
• Literacy Props (reading center, writing center)
• Print Rich (labels, children name tags)
• Books and Writing Tools in Many Centers
• Visual Supports for Children (i.e. labeling cubbies with names, sign language posters, alphabet posters, hand washing posters)

 

SEEDS Quality Teacher

• Sensitive: talk, ask questions, wait-time.
• Encourage: specific feedback of positive behavior.
• Educate: use explicit instruction, running commentary, scaffold to succeed.
• Develop through Doing: talk, read write.

 

Literacy Rich Curriculum: Teaching the “BIG 5 Literacy Skills”

• Engage children with conversation/comprehension
• Engage children with vocabulary and background knowledge
• Engage children with book and print rules
• Engage children with phonological awareness (rhyme, alliteration)
• Engage children with letter knowledge

 

Family Involvement

• Parent Education
• School–Home Communication
• Literacy at Home