Emergent literacy difficulties refer to challenges children may face as they begin to develop the foundational skills for reading and writing
These difficulties can manifest in several ways and may impact a child’s ability to learn to read and write later on. Common emergent literacy difficulties include:
- Phonological Awareness Issues: Struggling to recognize and manipulate sounds in words, such as rhyming, blending sounds, or identifying syllables. This can make it difficult for children to learn letter-sound relationships, which are crucial for the development of reading skills.
- Limited Vocabulary: Difficulty acquiring and using a wide range of words, which can hinder comprehension and expression in both oral and written language.
- Print Awareness Deficits: Trouble understanding that print carries meaning, recognizing letters, or differentiating between letters, words, and sentences, making it harder to grasp the concept of reading and writing.
These difficulties can create barriers to literacy development and may require targeted interventions to support the child in acquiring the skills they need for academic success. Early identification and support from professionals, like speech therapists, are crucial in helping children overcome these challenges and build a strong literacy foundation.
