Symbolic Problem Solving: An Important Piece of the Emergent Literacy Puzzle

The understanding of the representational nature of symbols and the ability to actively internalize and use these symbols is a crucial developmental step in the emergence of reading and writing literacy. Information was obtained from a study briefly summarized in this report which confirmed that children become able to understand and exploit external physical symbols by age three. How symbolic problem solving fits into the emergent literacy picture and its importance in providing the careful observer with a glimpse into the overall symbolic capacity of the young child are considered. Implications for encouraging problem solving in young children are discussed, and it is concluded that an atmosphere in which children feel safe taking risks, an environment rich in materials that promote symbol use, and caring adults who act to encourage, rather than discourage are essential elements in the creation of competent, confident young problem solvers; active, creative thinkers; and efficient and motivated readers ...