Find Print Everywhere. Play with Words and Letters.

Baby Tips

• Talk to your baby about the shapes of different objects around the house (pillows, plates, chair cushions, toys).
• Read simple alphabet books and sing alphabet songs.
• Show your baby the first letter of his or her name in books and on signs. 

Toddler Tips

• Look for signs around your neighborhood and talk about what they say.
• Talk about what is alike and different about two objects: "The washcloth is wet; the towel is dry. They are both soft." 
• Use simple puzzles to help toddlers see different shapes. 
• Point out a few letters and their sounds on signs; start with the first letter of your toddler's name.  
• Read alphabet books with clear letters and pictures.

Preschool Tips

• In the store, have your child help find the foods you need. Talk about the labels and how the words tell you what is in the box.
• Let your child scribble and "write" with crayons and pencils. 
• Play games with letters—cut them out of magazines or have fun writing them with your child. 
• Form letters with modeling clay or trace letters in salt or yogurt on the table. Talk about the sound each letter makes.
• Help your child find the letters in his or her name in books, ads, signs and other print.