In this course you will explore how children gain an understanding of spoken and written language, are socialised into culture, gain the ability to think symbolically and develop imaginative abilities and a theory of mind. You will focus on language and literacy codes including: pre-verbal language, speech, communication and literacy awareness. You will be introduced to current theories of language development, literacy in the early years and socio cultural theories on the growth of languages within relational contexts. Pedagogical practices that facilitate language, literacy and an appreciation of literatures across cultures will be explored. You will learn to design environments and learning experiences that are language rich and promote an aesthetic appreciation of a variety of narrative styles.