Includes bibliographical references and index.

Laying foundations: principles and practices to guide early literacy programs -- Dynamic systems theory applied to language/literacy learning -- Providing children with a WHY?: print awareness in school, home, and community -- Exploring squiggles on the page: teaching and practicing letter knowledge skills -- Providing children with tools: phonological awareness and accompanying skills -- Using tools to make meaning: phonics and decoding strategies -- Using sounds and letters to form words: developmental spelling -- Bringing stories to life: approaches to understanding and enjoying narratives -- Learning about the world: exploring and comprehending expository texts -- Collaborating with children's first teachers: integral role of parents in children's literacy -- Enriching language and literacy: integrating visual arts, music, dance, and drama -- Assessing students' needs and progress: use of data to adjust instruction -- Learning and improving together: collaborative professional development -- Applying systematic and engaging practices: planning units and lesson activities.