Early reading

ENGLAND

The government's Early Years Foundation Stage covers the care, learning and development of children in early years settings from birth until their fifth birthdays. It becomes compulsory in September. The guidance says children's competence in "being read to and beginning to read" must be supported and extended. Reading should be about children understanding stories, books and rhymes, recognising that print carries meaning, reading words and simple sentences. Language development is best supported through activities that engage all the senses. The government has funded the charity Bookstart to give baby books to all new parents.

SCOTLAND

Curriculum for Excellence, the new approach to education in Scotland covering ages three to 18, will be introduced from August 2009. The Scottish Government says this will mean a greater emphasis on the teaching of talking and reading skills. All practitioners have a responsibility to develop literacy skills. According to Curriculum for Excellence, "spoken language has particular importance in the early years". The document argues that children's reading experiences begin with oracy - as oral language learners, children develop an increased vocabulary. Children should have a chance to choose, share and discuss books with practitioners, carers and parents.