Practice Brief: Early Literacy Instruction

Phonics instruction is an essential component of early literacy development, but effective instruction involves more than teaching letter-sound relationships in isolation. Children benefit when explicit and systematic phonics instruction is integrated with meaningful opportunities to read, write, talk, play, and apply new learning across the preschool through Grade 3 (PK–3) continuum.

This State of the Field Practice Brief translates current research into practical guidance for PK–3 leaders, educators, and parents and families. Grounded in both the Science of Reading and the Science of Learning and Development, it highlights developmentally informed approaches that connect foundational skills instruction with meaningful literacy experiences.

Designed for those supporting children's literacy development across PK–3, the brief offers evidence-based strategies, implementation considerations, and actionable recommendations for strengthening phonics instruction in everyday practice. It demonstrates how effective phonics instruction can strengthen foundational skills while fostering children's growth as confident readers, writers, and communicators.