Based on the premise that reading and writing, like other aspects of development, have histories that reach back into infancy, this book for teachers and parents introduces a comprehensive understanding of literacy development for infants through preschool age children. A practical approach, it emphasizes age-appropriate methods, books, and materials for encouraging beginning reading and writing. Chapter 1 covers young children's written language, particularly the connection between oral and written language and the recognition of literacy behavior in its early nonconventional stages. Chapter 2, entitled "Begin with Books," concentrates on babies' and toddlers' interactions with books at various stages of their development. Chapter 3, "Preschoolers and Storybooks," discusses the story-reading behavior typical of the preschool period, those story-reading experiences considered to contribute to literacy development, and ways to facilitate this development. Chapter 4, "Young Children and Writing," examines young children's understandings of writing development and ways to support beginning efforts. Chapter 5, "Organizing the Environment to Support Literacy Development," identifies literacy materials and play activities that can be developed in the classroom. Appendix 1 offers advice to parents, and Appendix 2 contains a pre-first grade reading program. Extensive bibliographies for age-appropriate children's books are listed throughout the book. (DST)