Spanish early literacy parent-child activity materials available

As we continue our work on the Breaking Down Barriers project, CLASP's research shows that young children of immigrants need experiences that support their home- and second-language development, that respect their families’ culture and traditions, and that offer meaningful opportunities for parents who speak languages other than English to be involved.

Yet, we found that there is a wide range of education levels, experience, and training among family, friend, and neighbor caregivers, and few supports for those providers.

Focus groups of license-exempt care providers in immigrant neighborhoods in San Jose, California found that providers were interested in information, resources and training in child development, and assistance in supporting the school readiness of children in their care. (Exempt Care Collaborative: Mayfair and Seven Trees/Solari Neighborhoods: Final Report and Recommendations)

Therefore, we were excited to notice that the Spanish version of Supporting Early Literacy in Natural Environments: Activities for Caregivers and Young Children has recently been updated. It includes forty-six home and community activities designed to address the three key skills of 1) language development, 2) phonological awareness, and 3) general print awareness. The activities are appropriate for children with disabilities as well as children who are developing typically.