What is the initial stage of writing and reading development called?

The initial stage of writing and reading development is referred to as the emergent speller/reader stage. During this phase, young learners begin to develop the foundational skills necessary for literacy. They engage with letters, sounds, and basic words, often experimenting with writing by using their knowledge of phonetics, even if not all their spelling is conventional.

At this stage, children typically enjoy exploring print and may be able to recognize some letters and words. They are also beginning to understand that written symbols represent sounds and ideas. This exploration is crucial for their development as it sets the groundwork for more advanced reading and writing skills. As they progress from this emergent stage, they will become more sophisticated in their use of language and literacy conventions, leading to greater proficiency in both reading and writing.