Early Literacy Checklist by Lucy Hart Paulson

This checklist outlines the developmental progression of early literacy skills from infancy through the early years, highlighting how oral language, phonological processing, and written language develop in an interconnected sequence. It provides educators and caregivers with a roadmap for recognizing key literacy milestones and supporting children’s language and literacy growth through developmentally appropriate interactions and instruction. While these skills are important, it is essential to note that they develop alongside executive functioning and social-emotional milestones, which all impact learning.

• Support educators as they discern what is and what is not in alignment with the science of reading
• Assist people in becoming informed consumers of instructional materials, professional development, and resources
• Impact publishers’ and policymakers’ decisions as they develop materials and policy guidelines