At what stage does literacy begin in children according to developmental knowledge?

Literacy development begins during infancy as children are exposed to language and print in their environment. This foundational stage includes activities such as listening to stories, engaging in conversations, and recognizing sounds and rhythms of language. Infants develop critical skills, such as phonemic awareness and vocabulary, through interaction with caregivers and exposure to books, even before they can read or write. This early engagement is crucial as it establishes the groundwork for later literacy skills. By fostering an interest in communication and storytelling from a young age, infants are better prepared to develop more complex literacy skills as they grow.