The Power of Environmental Sounds in Early Literacy

Listening is the first step to reading. In this insightful session, Anita Harris explores how children’s awareness of environmental sounds, from birds chirping to everyday household noises, forms the foundation for language and literacy development.

Part of TDCC’s Phonics Foundations Series, this webinar highlights how the Phase 1 Phonics framework nurtures attention, listening, and sound discrimination before formal reading begins. Through practical, evidence-based strategies, Anita demonstrates how sound awareness supports both neurotypical and neurodivergent learners in building strong communication and pre-reading skills.

This session is perfect for parents, educators, and early years advocates seeking to understand how tuning in to the world of sounds can spark lifelong literacy and learning.

Objectives

By the end of the session, participants will:

1. Discover how developing sound awareness in everyday environments builds the foundation for reading and language growth.

2. Learn practical, playful strategies to help children tune in to sounds before formal phonics instruction begins.

3. Understand the vital link between listening skills, phonemic awareness, and reading readiness in early learners.

About the Speaker

Anita Harris is an Early Years Practitioner and Learning Support Educator at The Developing Child Centre, dedicated to creating inclusive and engaging learning experiences for young children. With over five years of experience in international schools across Dubai, she brings a strong understanding of early childhood development, communication, and sensory-based learning.

Trained in the Monster Phonics program, Anita helps early learners connect sounds, language, and literacy through playful, evidence-based approaches. Her work reflects a deep belief that every child deserves the right foundation to listen, learn, and thrive.