What should be the main focus of early literacy instruction for preschoolers?

Building vocabulary and understanding print concepts should be the main focus of early literacy instruction for preschoolers because these foundational skills are essential for children to develop their literacy abilities as they grow. At this stage, children benefit significantly from experiences that expose them to a rich language environment, which helps in expanding their vocabulary. Furthermore, understanding print concepts—which includes recognizing that print has meaning, distinguishing between letters and words, and learning how to hold a book—lays the groundwork for effective reading skills later on.

Preschoolers are at a developmental stage where they are naturally curious and exploratory, making it an ideal time to introduce them to language, storytelling, and print in a playful and engaging manner. By prioritizing these aspects, educators can foster a love for reading and pave the way for more complex literacy skills, such as phonemic awareness and comprehension, which will be critical as they advance in their education.