Which factor is crucial for developing early literacy skills?

Frequent exposure to books and reading aloud is essential for developing early literacy skills because it immerses children in language, builds vocabulary, and enhances comprehension. Reading aloud helps children understand the structure of language, introduces them to story concepts, and fosters a love of reading. This practice also promotes phonemic awareness, as children learn to recognize sounds, words, and sentence structures, which are foundational for reading proficiency. Engaging with books in a regular and interactive manner not only develops literacy skills but also supports critical thinking and imagination.

In contrast, while technology can serve educational purposes, it does not replace the rich benefits of direct, personal interaction with books and storytelling. Additionally, short periods of reading time may not provide sufficient depth or engagement to cultivate a strong literacy foundation, and focusing primarily on standardized tests can shift the emphasis away from fostering a genuine love for reading and understanding, which are vital to early literacy.