At what stage do children begin to read independently?

Children typically begin to read independently during the early childhood stage, which encompasses the ages of approximately 3 to 6 years. During this period, children develop essential language skills and begin to understand the connections between letters and sounds, making it a crucial time for literacy development. While infants may have early exposure to language, such as listening to stories or seeing pictures, they are not yet capable of reading independently.

Independent reading skills generally emerge when children have reached specific developmental milestones in language and communication, such as recognizing letters, understanding that print carries meaning, and beginning to decode simple texts. These skills are honed further during early childhood, which is why the focus on this age group is critical for fostering a love of reading and developing literacy skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey.

Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the significance of early childhood as the stage when children transition into the ability to read independently, building upon the foundational skills developed during earlier developmental milestones.