Spotlight on Early Reading: Guidance from the National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust has recently shared updated practitioner guidance on supporting reading in the early years, offering clear, practical strategies that align closely with the EYFS focus on communication, language, and early literacy.
Schools And Early Years Settings Offer Toolkit & Resources | National Year Of Reading | National Literacy Trust
The guidance emphasises that reading begins long before children decode print. It highlights the importance of:
- A language‑rich environment where adults model new vocabulary and engage in meaningful conversations
- Daily shared reading using high‑quality texts that spark curiosity and enjoyment
- Repetition and familiarity, helping children internalise story structures, characters, and language patterns
- Opportunities to retell stories through play, props, small world, and role‑play
- Embedding books across continuous provision, not just in the book corner
- Strong adult–child interactions, where practitioners tune in, respond, and extend children’s thinking
The guidance also reinforces the role of reading for pleasure as a foundation for later literacy success. Creating cosy spaces, offering choice, and celebrating children’s favourite books all help nurture a positive reading culture.
This is a great time of year to review how reading is woven through your provision. You might consider:
- refreshing your book areas
- adding story baskets or puppets
- linking books more intentionally to children’s interests
- modelling story language during play
If you’d like support in developing early reading practice or reviewing your literacy environment, the Early Years Quality and Inclusion Team is happy to help.