Ready for Reading

BIRTH TO 5

Knowing Words

Knowing many words helps children recognize written words and understand what they read:

Vocabulary is about knowing the names of things, feelings, ideas and concepts (like more or less, and before or after).
Hearing and understanding many words helps children sound them out when they are learning to read.
This section offers some ideas and activities to help your child learn more words.

Developmental Milestones

Vocabulary begins to develop at birth and continues to grow throughout life. Here are some common stages in building vocabulary.

Babies

Can understand the names of some familiar people and objects.
Babble and try to "talk" with you.

Toddlers

Can use words to express desires and feelings.
Are familiar with the main parts of the body.

Preschoolers

Know the names of familiar animals.
Can name common objects in picture books.
Can create longer sentences.

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