Write the alphabet in plain letters and the letters in cursive next to them for the first reference for the class. Use a ruler to make three lines, the kind with the top and bottom that the children often use to learn cursive.
Show the students one at a time how to make each letter by showing them where you start in the lines and how you make the letters. This should give the students an idea of how to make the letters.
Hang a poster, which can be purchased at almost any teacher supply store, around the room featuring both the "regular" and cursive ways to write a letter to remind students what each letter looks like if they get confused. Some also sell posters with arrows on them, reminding children where to start and which way to go with their pencils to form the letter.
Quiz students on reading words in cursive or which letters are which without the print equivalent next to them. This will help them get used to how the words and letters look.
Give students cursive handouts. These are available at many teacher supply stores and online. Handouts typically focus on one letter at a time.
Have students practice each letter without the handout when they are ready. Don't be afraid to sit next to individual children and help them create their letters by taking their hands and manipulate them to make the letters so they get a feel for it. You can also sit next to the children and show them one-on-one or individually how to make the letters up close if they are still confused.
Ask students to begin writing small words like individual spelling words in cursive. As they become more and more advanced, have them begin doing all assignments in cursive.