Literacy encompasses so much!  It includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  We experience big books, trade books, and books written by the students.  We write our own stories, rewrite stories we have read in class, and write in our journals.  The students have an opportunity for speaking through retelling and acting out stories. You can encourage reading and writing by showing your child the power of print and helping him or her to make sense of it.

Here are some things that you can do at home:

	Ask your child to "read" symbols such as arrows, figures on restroom doors, etc.
	Ask your child to read signs for stop, speed limit, and railroad crossings.
	Ask your child to write captions for family photos.  As your child dictates to you, write down the exact words.
	When writing letters or notes, give your child writing materials, too.
	Give your child your 'junk mail' to open while you open your mail.
	Visit the library with your child and borrow books together.
	Give your child books and writing supplies as presents.
	Most importantly, READ to your child and let your child see you read and write everyday!

It is so important to READ to your child. Here are some guidelines for choosing a good book:

	Stories should be appropriate for the child's age level.
	Pictures should be clear with not too many objects on the page.
	The pictures should tell a story that makes sense without the printed words.
	Stories should be for pleasure and fun, but include educational books, too.
	Books should help add new words to the child's vocabulary.

Your child should be able to read the following words by the end of first grade:

	Pre-primer sight words
	Primer sight words
	First grade sight words