Foundations of Language and Literacy Development

Build the Skills That Set Children Up for Lifelong Reading Success

Strong early language and literacy skills don’t happen by chance—they are built through intentional teaching, responsive relationships, and meaningful everyday experiences. This 10-hour training is designed for early childhood educators working with children ages 3–5 who want practical, research-based strategies they can use right away. Grounded in the Science of Reading, LETRS®, and leading early childhood research, this training helps you create rich language environments where every child can thrive.

Whether you're looking to strengthen your practice, support diverse learners better, or feel more confident in teaching early literacy, this course gives you tools you can use immediately.

What You’ll Walk Away With

By the end of this training, you will be able to:

• Support children’s language development in everyday interactions
• Build early literacy skills like phonological awareness and print knowledge through play and routines
• Create classroom environments that naturally promote talking, reading, and writing
• Use intentional strategies that prepare children to become confident readers and writers
• Partner with families to extend learning beyond the classroom

What’s Included

This training is organized into five engaging lessons:

1. The Foundation for Language and Literacy
2. Language and Literacy in Supportive Environments
3. Tools for Responsive Climates and Relationships
4. Instructional Activities with Intentional Play
5. Fostering Language and Culture within Families

Why This Training Matters

The early years are critical for language and literacy development. Educators who understand how these skills grow, and how to intentionally support them, make a lasting difference in children’s futures.

This training helps you move beyond theory to confident, effective practice.

Before You Enroll

We are pleased to offer high-quality, self-paced professional development opportunities for early childhood professionals. To ensure the training meets your individual needs, please check with your employer, state licensing agency, or training registry regarding acceptance of a University of Arkansas Global Campus Certificate of Completion before enrolling.

Ready to strengthen your language and literacy practice? Enroll today!