This book outlines seven strands of practice for the foundation years upon which successful teaching of literacy skills depends. Written by literacy specialist Sue Palmer and early years consultant Ros Bayley, it draws on the advice and experience of many professionals involved with this age group, including speech and language therapists, literacy and music specialists, early years advisors, developmental psychologists and - above all - practitioners from around the UK and, indeed, from across Europe. Foundations of Literacy provides fun activities for three to six year old children, designed to develop the skills, concepts and knowledge underpinning literacy. Alongside, are clear explanations of the research and reasoning on which they are based. It also provides practical advice on helping children transfer this learning into their own, child-initiated activities, to build a genuine and solid foundation for literacy.