76th Annual SECA Conference

Talk and telling stories has an essential place at the core of writing. Through talk, children unfold their thinking and develop the confidence to take risks in their writing. This session explores several ways teachers can capitalize on children’s oral language development while supporting their emergent writing skills. Attendees will participate in simulations of versatile techniques and routines that guide children’s use of writing utensils and storytelling. Additionally, attendees will make and take home their own sets of storytelling materials. This interactive session will equip attendees with practical, creative, and developmentally appropriate techniques and materials to nurture writing in their students.

Research indicates that writing in early childhood offers numerous developmental and educational advantages. Early educators are crucial in fostering emerging literacy among young children by providing regular chances for them to engage in writing activities. Through consistent opportunities to write, children improve fine motor skills, develop alphabet knowledge, enhance phonemic awareness, and acquire a variety of other skills. During this interactive session, we will trace the journey of Isabella, a pre-kindergarten student, over the course of a school year, examining samples of her writings and exploring how current HCS leadership team teachers, guide and support students' exploration of writing. Join us to learn supporting brain research and many developmentally appropriate activities to foster growth in your classroom.

Allowing children to make choices and to play during the daily routine are essential to the development of their executive function, self regulation, social skills and problem-solving. However, not all daily routines allow this to happen. This session will remind us of the essential skills and understandings that preschool children gain through play and how to provide it for them.