Young children who are born deaf or hard of hearing are at risk for language and emergent literacy challenges. Emergent literacy skills play a significant role in early reading abilities for typically developing children with hearing. The purpose of this article is to (a) provide an overview of the research relating to oral language and emerging…

The First Lady calls for Americans to work together and give parents the tools they need to raise their children, and to make learning a lifelong journey. (HTH)

The rapid, disjointed, and vivid style of Sesame Street may impede rather than promote progress toward literacy and the development of voluntary attention. It robs children of the ability to create mental pictures. Contends that it is a failure as an instructional medium. (DM)

Highlighted by Katy's early reading and writing experiences, guidelines to help young children become effective readers and writers are offered to parents and teachers. (BB)

Attendance in U.S. preschools has risen substantially in recent decades, but gaps in enrollment between children from advantaged and disadvantaged families remain. Using data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 1998-1999, we analyze the effect of participation in child care and early education on children's school…

Presents answers to 12 questions parents might have about reading aloud to young children (e.g., why, how, when to begin, teaching reading, building a love of books, choosing books, and the whole-language approach). The article discusses the educational advantage reading aloud gives to children in their early years. (SM)

Provides guidelines on selecting software for preschoolers and a buyer's guide with entries arranged by manufacturer. Each entry includes: name of the software package; current price; a list of special features (paddle/joystick required, graphic, and sound); and brief comments (such as subject and/or skill area and format). (JN)