For several decades the early childhood aspect of the controversies in the field of reading has been centered on the question of whether it is appropriate or feasible to provide formal and intensive instruction in reading and writing for entering kindergarten students. All side agree that no harm be done to the children, that first experiences in school be socially and affectively positive, that emergent literacy be developed, and differences in development and early socialization be respected. Virtually all specialists in earl childhood oppose a literacy oppose a literacy boot camp for infants and young children and oppose drill-and-practice rote training