What is a significant risk for children who lack emergent literacy skills?

Children who lack emergent literacy skills are indeed at a significant risk of falling behind in future schooling. Emergent literacy encompasses the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that precede formal reading and writing. These foundational skills are critical for children's academic success. Without them, children may struggle with basic literacy tasks and comprehension, making it difficult for them to keep pace with their peers in later grades. As they progress through school, the gap in literacy skills can widen, leading to further academic challenges that can affect their overall educational experience and self-esteem.

In contrast, while preferences for play or the choice not to read can be relevant, they do not directly indicate the long-term educational consequences associated with lack of literacy skills. Excelling in other areas, such as mathematics or physical development, does not compensate for the foundational need for literacy in today's learning environments, where reading is often essential for success across subjects.