Early Literacy

Children’s early experiences with books and reading help prepare them for school and set them up for success later in life. Exposing babies to books and reading increases vocabulary and makes it easier for them to learn to read later on. Just as important, sharing books provides babies and children with warm and nurturing interactions with trusted adults. Early exposure to language—whether through books, words, or songs—can help prevent problems and promote health. 

Practice tools and guidelines

• Read, Speak, Sing: Promoting early literacy in the health care setting. Position statement from the Canadian Paediatric Society’s Early Years Task Force
• Poster for clinics, offices, and other settings where parents gather. Download the pdf or request copies from the CPS by emailing [email protected]
• Promoting early literacy: A guide for clinicians. Includes conversation starters to facilitate discussion with families during well-child visits and other health care encounters. Download the pdf or request laminated copies from the CPS at [email protected]
• Video: Promoting early literacy in the health care setting. An interview with Dr. Alyson Shaw, author of the CPS position statement on early literacy
• Language Acquisition in Immigrant and Refugee Children: First language use and bilingualism. Guidance from Caring for Kids New to Canada
• Literacy Resources for Physicians. National, provincial and territorial resources to help doctors promote literacy in their practices and communities

Training and education

Information for parents and caregivers