The purpose of early literacy essentials is to improve children’s literacy in Michigan. Professional development throughout the state can focus on this set of research-supported literacy instructional practices for daily use in the classroom.

Early childhood education can help improve reading-by-third-grade outcomes. Pre-K education also can address disparities in literacy achievement. Research suggests that each of the 10 practices outlined in this document can have a positive impact on literacy development.

The use of these practices in every Michigan classroom every day can make a measurable, positive difference in the state’s literacy achievement.