Reading by Accident: Promoting Early Literacy

Symbolic Representation

Games teach that a symbol (e.g., a heart) represents a concept (life/health). This understanding that "this stands for that" is the bedrock of reading and math literacy.

Instruction Following

Following spoken or visual instructions in a game, like "MAKE PIZZA," reinforces vocabulary and comprehension. It gives words context, making them easier to learn and remember than rote memorization.