The writing journey starts with the child's attempts to put marks on the paper. Providing suitable material at this stage is needed to encourage development of fine motor skills. Usually, a toddler holds a crayon or marker with his fist and you can help him practice control of his movements. Show him different ways of scribbling, such as working as fast or as slowly as he can. Providing paper of many sizes and shapes inspires a preschooler to test different strategies.
When preschoolers start to write, they begin grasping the idea that letters appear in linear sequences. They enjoy the attention this new idea brings, and you can introduce other writing concepts. A preschooler will discover aspects about writing by herself, but she will also benefit from your guidance. Short, frequent sessions ensure that the child will stay focused. Allow her to explore drawing with markers, crayons or sidewalk chalk. Painting, using a brush or her fingers, helps develop motor skills. She can learn to write in a variety of materials, including sand, salt, oatmeal or shaving cream. Make letters with her using Play-Doh or clay.
Model writing letters for your toddler and use a range of materials to practice drawing straight lines and circles. His hand strength will develop by making patterns using various writing tools. It is a different experience learning to draw a circle with crayons than with a paintbrush. Preschoolers hold a crayon close to the paper, while a brush is held further up, making it more difficult to control. Air writing is an engaging activity involving gross motor skills and capturing preschoolers' attention. Make circles, letters of the alphabet and smooth forms and mix with sharp and short movements.
Writing activities that involve the letters in the child's name are often received with enthusiasm. You can help by holding the pencil with her to form letters. Praise her efforts, and occasionally point out the direction. Toward the end of the preschool years, many children start writing words, and they often invent their own spelling. Stamping words or names is an engaging activity that helps them focus on the words rather than letters.This activity also requires that the preschooler analyze the letters to find the matching stamps.