What is the ‘right time’ to start encouraging reading? What if my child is not showing any interest at all? These are some of the questions addressed in the episode and article by Stacy Benge. You will also gain insight into vestibular and proprioceptive systems, crossing the midline, using print in meaningful contexts, attributing meaning to marks, learning to tune into and distinguish between sounds, developing phonological awareness and visual perception, discriminating between marks and following the child’s cues. Read Stacy’s article: My child can’t read yet –  https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/my-child-cant-read-yet/ Listen to more: If you enjoyed this episode you might also like: Supporting families in understanding phonics through music with Tasha Bretten –   https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/supporting-families-in-understanding-phonics-through-music/ My child can’t write yet with Helen Battelley – https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/my-child-cant-write-yet-the-foundations-of-early-writing/ Episode break down: 00:00 – Why are we addressing this topic? 04:09 – The ‘earlier is better’ myth 07:00 – Seeing literacy as development rather than teaching 07:34 – Connections between physical development & literacy 10:44 – Practical tips for parents 13:28 – Don’t risk squashing the love for learning 14:20 – When do we know when it’s ‘the right time’ to start reading? 19:15 – Encourage children to tune into sounds around them 21:00 – Making sure your child is present and taking in their surroundings 22:00 – Does technology diminish opportunities for literacy learning? 25:03 – Consistency is key – Working with your child’s nursery/school 28:58 – Does your child understand what they are learning? 30:27 – Stepping back and allowing for ‘development to happen’ 31:26 – Input from the adult vs child-led learning 33:45 – What if my child shows no interest in literacy? 37:02 – Trusting your child 38:00 – Biggest takeaways… For more episodes and articles visit The Voice of Early Childhood website: https://www.thevoiceofearlychildhood.com