How does early comprehension develop in young children, and how can we better prepare preschoolers to become successful readers? This important volume compiles today's best research on the often-overlooked topic of prereader comprehension: what we know about it now, and what we need to know to build a stronger foundation for children’s future reading skills. More than two dozen literacy experts clearly describe theoretical models of early comprehension, demystify current research, recommend effective practices for boosting comprehension, and identify critical research priorities for the near future. An essential text and reference for reading specialists, program administrators, SLPs, preservice professionals, and researchers, this volume is key to helping children develop the early comprehension skills that support later reading success.

KEY TOPICS COVERED:

the importance of teaching all young children comprehension strategies
connections between vocabulary development and listening comprehension
the relationship of academic talk to reading comprehension
how social pretend play helps children cultivate skills essential for comprehension
development of executive function skills important for academic success assessment of comprehension skills in prereaders
how young children become literate in a digital society
the benefits of using academic talk and informational texts in pre-K classrooms
ways to support early comprehension for multilingual students and those with special needs

parents’ and teachers’ complementary roles in developing children’s comprehension