Encourage Your Preschooler to Write

Preschool is a great place for young children to learn the basics, such as letters, numbers, shapes and more. While many preschoolers are just beginning to develop hand-eye coordination and small motor skills (the kind that are important for holding pencils, scissors, etc.), using the following fun activities can help encourage writing in preschool.

As with all learning, the most important thing to remember is that it should be FUN. Skip the wordbooks and worksheets. Most children this age are not interested in them. Instead, incorporate writing activities into their everyday play.

Activity 1 – Use Your Fingers

Some 3 and 4 year olds may have trouble properly gripping pencils or crayons. Why not use tools that they were born with instead – their fingers! A cookie tray filled with salt or sand or even squishy gel sensory bags are both fun to make and fun to write on. Children can practice writing letters or numbers, then simply run their hand over the tray or bag to “erase” their work and start again.

Activity 2 – Provide Unique Writing Experiences

Writing doesn’t have to be tedious or boring. When you offer unique experiences like writing in shaving cream or tracing designs on a window during a sunny day (works just like a light table), you are offering an interesting way to get your child to practice writing, tracing, and drawing.

Activity 3 – Make it Relevant

Children learn best when what you are teaching is relevant to them. What is more relevant than their name? For preschoolers, a great way to get them to learn their name is to have them sign all of their art projects. Start by writing their name with a highlighter, then have them trace over the letters with a pencil, crayon, or marker. As they get better with spelling their name, they will soon be able to write it themselves.

Activity 4 – Keep a Journal

Journals are more than just a great way to help your child practice writing. They also serve as a positive way for preschoolers to express themselves creatively. Encourage your child to journal about enjoyable experiences they have at school, at home, on vacation, or at a friend’s house. While most young children will begin journaling by drawing pictures and not writing words, have them describe their picture or tell their story so you can write it down in simple words. This helps children understand that their words have value.

Activity 5 – Set Up a Writing Station

A small desk or table where you can keep crayons, pens, paper, cards, stickers, glue, scissors, and other materials will keep your child interested in coming back. Let your child make cards or gifts for their family, friends, or teachers so they can practice writing and drawing to hone in on their coordination and hand movements.

The most important thing to remember is all early learning experiences is that they should be fun. When your preschooler associates writing with play, an enjoyable experience, they will be happy to take part in it. We value (and love) play here at Kids ‘R’ Kids Avalon Park. Our teachers and care providers spend a lot of time encouraging a love for writing and reading. If you have more questions on how you can help your preschooler find a love for writing, call us today!