First published in 2011. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

A practical guide to the 'what', 'how', and 'why' of creative practice for teaching language and literacy in early years settings and classrooms. Based upon the research evidence, this book examines how young children learn to use spoken and written language, and shows how to teach and plan for effective speaking, listening and reading lessons.

Covering the essential areas of practice, this book suggests ways to make your literacy teaching as creative and engaging as possible. Children get the most out of their learning when it is exciting, and this book offers great ideas for classroom practice, while making careful links to research. Sections advise on teaching narrative, poetry and non-fiction, and each chapter contains case studies and ideas to try out in practice. Written for teachers working with children aged 3-11 years, and specifically aimed at those with responsibility for literacy, this book gives you the opportunity to develop children's literacy in enjoyable and interesting ways.