By Okon Ekpenyong

The Ohio 2023 symposium on children held recently focused on developing data showing different methods of early childhood reading and writing development and ways to support skill development among young children as they get ready to read.

Aside from hearing from all the experts and educators specializing in Early Childhood Development across the nation, there were three breakout sessions. Supporting Early Literacy and Communication for Young Children Learning to Use AAC, Writing Into Literacy: Supporting Young Children’s Early Writing, and Stories and Synapses: Neurobiology of shared reading during early childhood and novel approaches to screening and guidance for children. 

In the breakout sessions, attendees learned the latest strategies and policies that would assist them in growing in their areas of interest. In addition, five speakers focus on what’s happening in Ohio regarding early childhood Education. As the Director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, Kara Wente focuses on state-wide initiatives to support children and families.

Dr. Melissa Weber-Mayrer Chief of Literacy for the Ohio Department of Education, discusses how Bolstering Literacy can help teacher Capacity, increase Multi-tiered Support Systems, and form better partnerships with other educators or agencies. Becky Schaade, library director at Fairfield County District Library, discusses the Early Literacy Center: Playscapes for early literacy

Also, Julia Shaheen, literacy manager at Stark County District Library and Ohio Ready to Read trainer, shed more light on Ohio Ready to Read: Librarians Empowering Families in Early Literacy.
Lastly, a review of the Evidence-based curriculum supplement, Sit Together and Read, was presented by Dr. Laura Justice, executive director of the Schoenbaum Family Center and Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy. 

Much of the 2023 symposium on children focuses on developing data showing different methods of early childhood reading and writing development and ways to support skill development among young children as they get ready to read. Research suggests that early literacy development starts early in life and is an essential predictor of success later in life.

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