This guide published by WestEd explores how to help young children become confident, independent readers and writers by developing strong foundational literacy skills, with a focus on decoding and encoding words. Designed primarily for teachers working with students from preschool and transitional kindergarten through 1st grade, the report also offers practical guidance for instructional coaches, school leaders, teacher educators, and curriculum developers. It includes considerations for supporting older students who may need continued development in foundational literacy, emphasizing instruction tailored to individual learning needs and characteristics while reinforcing the importance of joyful literacy.
