Before beginning the actual book-making activity, you will need to gather the appropriate materials. For the basic book design you can choose to use a pre-made blank book, sketch book or a handcrafted version. Pre-made blank books and sketch books are available at most arts and crafts or school supply stores. If you are choosing to make your own you will need two pieces of cardboard or card stock for the cover and the back, construction or drawing paper for the pages, a hole punch and ribbon or yarn to bind the book. Other items that you may need include markers, crayons, glue, glitter or other decor items to fill the pages.
Although it may be easier for some children to simply color in a pre-made book, making your own version from scratch can add an entirely new dimension to learning. Cut two pieces of cardboard and 26 pieces of construction paper to the same size. Eight-by-10 inch rectangles work well for this age. Punch two or three holes on the left sides, and "sew" yarn through to bind. Have the child write one letter on the top of each page using a marker or crayon. The child can draw an accompanying picture under each letter or cut out and glue a picture from a magazine. For example, "A" with an apple drawing or "B" with a picture of a boat.
Free downloadable printable worksheets are an easy way to fill out an alphabet book for little children. This option provides the child with a simple way to create unique alphabet pages that clearly display each individual letter. Visit a website such as First-School (see Resources) to find printable worksheets for each letter of the alphabet. Download the template and print onto regular white copier paper. Provide the child with crayons or markers to color in the letter and any accompanying pictures. Help the child organize the pages alphabetically and bind together by using a hole punch on the left side and sewing together with yarn or stapling.
Add a special sparkle to an alphabet book with glitter, stickers or other imaginative art items. Whether the child is making her own book, using a pre-made variety or binding together a selection of worksheets, she can use some extra craft materials to spice up the pages. Have the child trace over the letters with clear-drying school glue. Provide her with glitter to sprinkle over top or sequins to line up on the glue. Another option is to create textured letters that speak to multiple senses. Use fabric scraps, felt or craft foam and glue to collage pieces directly onto drawn letters following the lines. After the glue dries the child can feel the soft or bumpy textures of her alphabet creations.