CHILDREN'S LITERATURE AND LITERACY: A NARRATIVE REVIEW ON LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This article presents a narrative review based on the reading of books that introduce children's literature to four- and five-year-olds. This research focuses on a narrative review of children's literature. The results demonstrate that children's literature plays an important role in the integral development of children, especially between the ages of four and five, as it stimulates imagination, language, aesthetic sensitivity, and prepares them for literacy in a natural and enjoyable way. Based on the contributions of Vygotsky, Piaget, Ferreiro, and other theorists, it is understood that language is an essential cultural instrument for organizing thought and promoting meaningful learning. In this context, children exposed to quality books, stories, and rich illustrations expand their cognitive and social repertoire and strengthen their relationship with the world. Schools, teachers, and families must ensure frequent, playful, and accessible literary experiences, ensuring children's right to learn and develop fully. Children's literature is an essential cultural tool for a child's comprehensive development, fostering language, imagination, and aesthetic sensitivity. It is up to schools, teachers, and families to ensure quality literary experiences that ensure meaningful and enjoyable learning.