Impacts of Lack of Literacy at the Appropriate Age: Challenges and Strategies for Early Childhood Education

Abstract

This research investigates the impacts of the lack of literacy at the appropriate age and the measures to address such challenges. The aim of the study was to show the long-term consequences for the cognitive and academic development of children who are not literate at the appropriate age. In addition, the study seeks to identify the main challenges faced by these children, explore effective strategies to promote literacy in early childhood education, and analyze the role of educators and educational policies in promoting early literacy in childhood. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research integrates deductive and inductive methods, based on document analysis and literature review to produce updated and innovative knowledge. The study was developed in the school environment and with data regarding the impacts of the lack of literacy at the appropriate age, through interviews with early childhood education professionals and other stakeholders. The results show that the challenges of educational institutions go beyond the school environment, being influenced by lack of resources, low family participation, and unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. These factors affect student progress and hinder quality education. Supporting the ongoing training of educators and ensuring the purchase of appropriate teaching materials, in addition to encouraging community participation, are effective strategies for addressing this issue and improving literacy rates among children. Thus, it can be stated that resolving educational challenges related to literacy requires a comprehensive and integrated approach, in which various stakeholders collaborate to ensure the success of this essential aspect of education.