One of the most important conclusions of the recent report on the early years by the House of Commons Select Committee on Education and Employment was, 'The vast majority of professionals believe that numeracy and literacy in the foundation stage should be introduced informally, especially through play, games and informal conversation.'
A consensus is beginning to emerge: children's ability to learn how to write will actually be inhibited if they are subjected to over-formal teaching of letter shapes and sounds in their early years. This view is perhaps most powerfully expressed by the American National Association of State Boards of Education, which says that worksheet-based teaching of basic literacy is 'shockingly unstimulating to children and fails to extend their thinking'.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here