This text introduces an original, scalable instructional framework called Telling Our Stories (TOS), an approach for supporting culturally informed literacy instruction in the elementary classroom. Connecting the theory to practice, the TOS framework centers the cultural heritage and experiences of students and offers a roadmap to scientifically and pedagogically sound instruction. Aligned with current curriculum standards, chapters feature authentic examples and case studies, reflection questions, and writing activities that will foster a culture of inclusion, community, and academic rigor. The many practical strategies promote students' learning and appreciation of diversity through academic reading and writing as well as positive school-family and school-community relations. Readers will come away with new ideas, tools, and a thorough understanding of how to integrate culturally informed practices in ways that support the learning of all children. Accessible and comprehensive, this is an essential text for pre-service teachers in courses on ELA methods and literacy instruction, as well as practicing teachers.

This text introduces an original, scalable instructional framework called Telling Our Stories (TOS), an approach for supporting culturally informed literacy instruction in the elementary classroom. Connecting the theory to practice, the TOS framework centers the cultural heritage and experiences of students and offers a roadmap to scientifically and pedagogically sound instruction. Aligned with current curriculum standards, chapters feature authentic examples and case studies, reflection questions, and writing activities that will foster a culture of inclusion, community, and academic rigor. The many practical strategies promote students' learning and appreciation of diversity through academic reading and writing as well as positive school-family and school-community relations. Readers will come away with new ideas, tools, and a thorough understanding of how to integrate culturally informed practices in ways that support the learning of all children. Accessible and comprehensive, this is an essential text for pre-service teachers in courses on ELA methods and literacy instruction, as well as practicing teachers.

"This book merges the five big ideas in reading with developmentally appropriate practice to create a practical guide that will enhance literacy development in any type of preschool setting. The references, resources, and examples will help teachers bring these ideas to life in their classrooms." -Addie Gaines, Principal Kirbyville Elementary School, MO Use research-based strategies to build early literacy skills! Early childhood educators recognize that young children are more likely to succeed in later grades if they have a variety of engaging preschool experiences. Literacy for Young Children brings together reading research and learning standards to help teachers become informed decision makers about meeting the literacy needs of young students from diverse backgrounds. Based on the authors' work in Early Reading First classrooms, this resource includes evidence-based, easy-to-implement activities to develop oral language, phonological awareness, print awareness, emergent writing, and early comprehension skills. Chapters provide an overview of each skill, methods for assessment, and appropriate instructional strategies. The book showcases examples of PreK and kindergarten children from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds to demonstrate how teachers can support individual learners. Readers will be able to: Adapt instruction appropriately for ELLs and children with special needs Partner knowledgeably with families to provide rich literacy experiences at home Integrate literacy across the curriculum, and more As teachers and literacy coaches become more purposeful and confident instructors, they open the door to successful learning while continuing to close the achievement gap.