Facilitating Language and Literacy Development:
Teaching of infants and toddlers should be grounded on a responsive approach to teaching that allows rapid development. The attachment theory is concerned with the significance of warm and consistent relationships that will generate emotional security and permit exploration (Bowlby, 2010). Socio cultural theory focuses on the social interaction-based learning and mutual playing with closely trusted adults along with communication (Vygotsky, 1978). Respectful unhurried activities, like Pikler and RIE, are also promoted through other approaches, and provide the child with freedom of movement (Gerber, 2013).
Teaching Competencies and Skills Required
Educators need to be proficient in reactive "give and back" interaction (Centre on the Development of the Child, 2021), increasing the vocabulary of children (Arthur et al., 2024), identifying emotions to promote wellbeing (AGDE, 2022), and demonstrating social vocabulary in daily activities (ACECQA, 2020). Literacy learning is further encouraged via the development of printed, ethnically welcoming settings with readily available publications, labelled materials, and music (AGDE, 2022).
Authentic Curriculum Provision & Learning Opportunities
Dramatic stories, collaborative literacy and expanding vocabulary through walks in the outdoors, playtime with symbolism objects, and sensory marking are examples of authentic curriculum opportunities (Arthur et al., 2024).
Learning Experiences:
- 0–12 months: “Rattle & Rhyme Circle” (supports auditory learning; AGDE, 2022).
- 12–24 months: “Picture Book Talk Time” (promotes labelling; Arthur et al., 2024).
- 2–3 years: “Story Basket Play” (enhances narrative skills; ACECQA, 2020).
Resources:
Picture Books
(Brown Bear, Brown Bear; Written by Bill Martin Jr. https://youtube.com/shorts/R-jVeQZzaP0
Where Is the Green Sheep?) by MEN FOX, https://youtube.com/shorts/QGLV98uSgXg
Songs (“Old MacDonald”; https://youtube.com/shorts/pcmJi8-0R30
“five little docks went out one day” (https://youtube.com/shorts/XJeCJETvYjc).
‘Rhymes
’Five little monkey’’ https://youtube.com/shorts/a3LfInds6o0
Rhymes (“Clap, Tap, Wiggle” https://youtube.com/shorts/JBoyh9s_elc
Movement game: (“Bounce, Bounce, Little One”). https://youtube.com/shorts/lVVKo58LrFY
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