New He Kupu edition discusses literacy in early childhood

The much anticipated May edition of He Kupu is out now!

In this edition, the theme of literacy is explored with a particular focus on supporting teachers to recognise and respond to the wide variety of literacy skills children bring to early childhood settings.

The articles provide theoretical and practical support for early childhood practitioners to learn to introduce and support early literacy and language among young children.

Many prominent sector voices are featured, with an array of ideas and research shared. Examples include Pearl D’Silva who discusses ways to use picture books to extend children’s interest in literacy to support their interests, while giving them voice and encouraging active participation in their own learning.

Amy Thynne identifies ways in which teachers can promote skills that are fundamental to language and literacy development, through building onto children’s physical movement in play. Thynne explains how teachers can foster pre-literacy skills in emergent and holistic ways.

NZTC Academic Dean, Sean Dolan, is thrilled to be able to support early childhood academics, practitioners, researchers, and college alumni as they explore this significant learning area.

“Language and literacy is not only foundational to later academic success, but also to the development of child voice, agency and identity. It is important we understand and explore this concept, so both practitioners and parents can employ a range of approaches and teaching strategies to support their children’s engagement.”

NZTC Chief Executive Selena Fox shared her thoughts on the longevity of the journal.

“After our launch of He Kupu in 2006 with less than 100 subscribers, to 14 years later and today over 8000 subscribers, NZTC is honoured to launch our 26th issue to contribute to the global body of early childhood research and shared knowledge.”

Join more than 8,000 subscribers by signing up to He Kupu today! To subscribe visit the website at www.hekupu.ac.nz.

Note: He Kupu is a free online peer reviewed ECE journal published by New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) that aims to develop an inclusive, critical, collaborative, and informed community of early childhood professionals.