Eight Principles of Literacy Learning Children need to understand the purposes of literacy so they can fully appreciate and enjoy literacy in their lives.Children need to hear written language so they can learn its structure and take in new information and ideas.Children need to become aware of the sounds of langugae, to enjoy those sounds, and to use this knowledge as a tool in becoming literate.Children need to have many experiences working with written symbols so they can learn how to look at letters and use this information to read and write.Children need to explore words and learn how words work so they can use this information effectively and efficiently in reading and writing.Children need to learn the conventions of print and how books work so they can use this knowledge as readers and writers.Children need to read and write continuous text so they can use and expand their knowledge about letters, sounds, words, and language. Children need to develop flexibility and fluency to enhance comprehension and enjoyment of reading and writing.