To register for an Adult Education course, please contact tteater@familieslearning.org.

Alphabet Knowledge

Alphabet knowledge is the recognition of letters as distinct symbols that have specific names and specific sounds associated with them. This training designed to provide early childhood teachers with the strategies needed to introduce alphabet knowledge experiences to preschool children. Topics covered in the training include: improving preschool children’s alphabet knowledge; improving preschool children’s print awareness; and applying alphabet knowledge and print awareness strategies throughout the daily routine.

Dialogic Reading

Dialogic reading is a research-based technique that can be used effectively with children ages two through five. In dialogic reading, the adult encourages the child to participate in the telling of the story they're reading together rather than just listening. During this training, participants will learn how to use dialogic reading techniques in the classroom.

Dialogic Reading Workshops (Train-the-Trainer)

This train-the-trainer session will help staff provide parents with the knowledge and skills needed to use dialogic reading techniques with their children. Dialogic reading is a research-based technique that can be used effectively with children ages two through five. Participants will leave with materials to deliver parent workshops based on the findings of the National Early Literacy Panel (NELP), research supporting dialogic reading and the work of Dr. Grover "Russ" Whitehurst.

Oral Language Development

Oral Language is a leading predictor skill of later reading achievement for preschool children. Talking and learning to have conversations is a major developmental task. This session explores oral language development and how it supports skills that predict later success in reading and kindergarten readiness. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss and practice strategies that work to support young children at home, in school and childcare settings, and in the community.

Phonological Awareness

Phonological Awareness is the ability to hear and manipulate the separate sounds within words independent of the words’ meanings. This ability is directly linked to later reading ability, making this a vital area of instruction for preschool educators. This training will focus on the importance of code-focused instruction, strategies to use in the classroom, and how to support children as they learn to manipulate units of sound, and in what ways.