This course is a study of the development of literacy in early childhood emphasizing language acquisition, communication, emergent reading, emergent writing, and spelling. It includes an examination of and practice with developmentally appropriate curriculum and teaching methods for children?s literature, beginning reading, and the language arts. It explores the roles of teachers and parents in developing literacy, the creation of print-rich environments, and multicultural contributions to literature and literacy. Six to eight practicum hours are required.