The alphabet, particularly letter recognition is at the introductory level in the toddler and transitional toddler program. But introduction to the alphabet is not planned through flashcards and "letter of the day" and crafts. Instead it's intentionally integrated in the environment, in invitations to play and inquire, and also through our daily welcome and morning meeting. Our toddlers are picking up on things quite quickly. They begin to recognize that letters make words and that a particular letter ‘stands’ for their name. Our cups and cubbies help reinforce this everyday!
We of course take opportunities to draw attention to letters, but we let curriculum and interest dictate which letter that may be. If we're exploring the water and the garden, perhaps the letter will be "g" or "w". We build upon phonemic awareness by hearing the sound that starts the word. "Oh, I wonder if anyone's name starts with the same sound?" Once littles are ready to transition to Bloomer and Blossom programs they typically can identify the letters in their name, most can also identify all the letters of the alphabet by sound and sight.
We use zoo phonics to aid us with literacy development as well. All programs use zoo phonics- combining movement, letter association, and letter sound.
Thank you, Mr. Harry
We of course take opportunities to draw attention to letters, but we let curriculum and interest dictate which letter that may be. If we're exploring the water and the garden, perhaps the letter will be "g" or "w". We build upon phonemic awareness by hearing the sound that starts the word. "Oh, I wonder if anyone's name starts with the same sound?" Once littles are ready to transition to Bloomer and Blossom programs they typically can identify the letters in their name, most can also identify all the letters of the alphabet by sound and sight.
We use zoo phonics to aid us with literacy development as well. All programs use zoo phonics- combining movement, letter association, and letter sound.
Thank you, Mr. Harry
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