Preparing for Handwriting

As our little ones get bigger we begin to get ready for them to be able to write. Wow!  Trust me, we have all been there when we look at their little hands and say "They can't do that!".  But they can and they will!

Developmentally, children should begin learning to write their letters and numbers in PreK.  There is a big misconception that just because they begin to learn to write them that they will be proficient and perfect!  Not the case.  We as parents often begin to feel that if they learned it they should be perfect after a little practice. Reality is they will continue to refine their writing up into second grade.

So what are some things you can be doing at home to get their little hands ready?  Here are some easy to do activities for you and your kiddo!

1. Coloring: Yes, I said coloring.  However, I want you to break the crayons in half.  I will give you a moment to get over the shock.  We historically have reprimanded our kiddos for breaking the crayons right?  Well, not anymore.  So the big question is why.  Here is the reason: smaller crayons promote better grip and help to increase the strength in the tiny muscles in their hands.  Start with large print pictures that allow for greater success and transition to smaller pictures to help with control and precision.

2. I Spy Letter Game: Sometimes the most difficult part of writing is identifying what the letter looks like.  Play the I Spy game and have your little one identify all the letter B's in a location and so on.  This will help with visual recognition.

3. Paint by Number: Using a paint brush will help work towards grip for when they transition to a pencil.  In addition, having them identify the numbers on the picture will assist with number recognition.  Painting in the lines helps them with attention to the starting and stopping of strokes as well as control of the utensil.

Happy Hands Help for Happy Handwriting!