Early Years Education Partner, Sam McKenna, reflects on how reading in the early years is more than developing literacy skills – it’s a journey that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence for life.
“Reading is one of the most powerful tools we have available to us in the early years.
It’s not just about decoding words — it’s about opening doors to imagination, language development, and lifelong learning.
Research from the EEF highlights that early reading experiences lay the foundations for vocabulary growth, communication skills, and later academic success.
In simple terms - the earlier we start, the greater the impact.
But fostering a love of reading isn’t automatic. It requires intentional practice, rich environments, and skilled adults who understand how to make books and stories come alive for our youngest children.
That’s where the SIL Early Years Reading Advocacy Programme comes in.
About the Programme
Designed for early years practitioners in PVI settings and teaching assistants in schools, it equips practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become champions of early reading.
Grounded in evidence-based literacy practices, it focuses on:
- Effective interactions – How to use conversations and questioning to deepen understanding and spark curiosity.
- Enabling environments – Creating spaces where books are accessible, inviting, and central to daily routines.
- Curriculum design – Embedding reading-rich experiences across the early years curriculum.
Over three online sessions, practitioners will develop skills to:
- Select and use high-quality children’s literature.
- Engage families in shared reading at home.
- Champion strategies that promote language and communication development for children aged 0–5.
Through a blend of discussion, practical activities, and reflective tasks, attendees will leave ready to advocate for reading-rich practices within their settings — ensuring every child has the best possible start in their reading journey.
Ready to Champion Early Reading?
When we raise the profile of reading in the early years, we do more than teach literacy skills - we embed the foundations to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Children see books as friends, stories as adventures, and reading as a joy — not a chore.
Join us on this journey and create that ripple effect that not only reaches children – but their families, communities, and future classrooms.”
This three-session online programme is suitable for Early Years staff in PVI settings and Early Years teaching assistants in schools.
Have some further questions?
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