1st Edition
Creating an EPIC Early Writing Environment A Guide for Early Years Practitioners
Introduction 1. An EPIC writing environment: E is for writing Everywhere 2. An EPIC writing environment: P is for Playful and Purposeful Writing 3. An EPIC writing environment: I is for Inviting Spaces and Irresistible Resources 4. An EPIC writing environment: C is for Contextualised Writing with the Child at the Centre 5. EPIC writers: What shall we write about? 6. EPIC writers at home: partnership with parents 7. Final words
Biography
Julie Cigman is an Early Years author, consultant and trainer. She designed and runs early writing projects with schools and pre-schools, which have successfully improved the confidence, motivation and attainment of children in the project settings.
"Creating an EPIC Early Writing Environment is a beautifully observed book that every early years practitioner should have on their shelf. Julie Cigman draws on years of classroom research to show how young children become confident, motivated writers not through prescription but through play, purpose and an environment that takes them seriously. What sets it apart is the quality of the children's voices throughout, proof in every page that when we get this right, writing really can be irresistible."
- Trisha Lee, Founder and Artistic Director, MakeBelieve Arts
"If you want children to learn to write, then make writing matter to them. That is the clear and compelling message at the heart of this brilliant book, which reminds us of the joy, purpose and creativity that should underpin every child's journey into writing. Through rich observations, practical examples and inspiring ideas, Julie Cigman demonstrates what is possible when writing is rooted in play, agency and meaningful contexts. Evidence-based, thought-provoking and highly practical, this book challenges assumptions, celebrates children's competence and offers a powerful vision of what early writing can and should be. It should be required reading for every Reception teacher!"
- Kym Scott, Early Childhood Consultant, Author and Speaker
"At a time when writing is more important than ever as a vehicle for structured, critical thinking, adventure and self-expression, this book provides a simple yet powerful framework for evaluating and developing our practice in schools."
- Beck Barber-Stubbs, Headteacher, Easton Royal Academy
