Children who hear their names often are more likely to remember them. Talking to children often, and addressing by name, is critical to establishing verbal recognition and retention. Children will be able to recognize their names long before they can say them.
Word recognition is a critical part of reading. Encourage children to recognize their name when it is written by playing hide and seek games, matching games and other activities.
Using clear, legible handwriting, write various words on index cards. These words should be short and basic, such as "run," "door," "car," "boat" and "ball." Create a small stack of cards with the child's name written on them. Mix these up and tape them in various locations around the room. Have the child search for the cards with his name on them.
Matching games can be played using index cards, also. Create a stack of cards that contains two identical cards with the child's name as well as the names of other family members. Have the child match the cards together and determine what they say.
A variation on a matching game can include cards with single letters on them. Have the child assemble the cards in the right order to spell his name. Include some extraneous letters that are not actually present in the child's name to add some challenge to this activity.
Use name tags to label the child's things to encourage additional recognition. For example, a toy box could be labeled "Jack's Toys," a dresser could be titled "Makayla's Clothes," and a special chair could be designated "Colby's Chair." This allows the child to see his name repeatedly while increasing his exposure to other words as well.
Encouraging a child to draw forms of the fundamentals required to write his name. Encourage children to trace pictures of squares, triangles, circles and other shapes. As the child gains mastery over basic shapes and lines, he will be better prepared to write his name. Practice by holding the child's hand as he shapes his name.
As the child gains confidence, the parent or teacher can allow the child to attempt it alone. Providing an example at the top of the page or using a translucent paper to allow the child to trace it can encourage accuracy.
Allowing the child to use creative mediums such as sidewalk chalk, finger paint, glue and glitter or special pens to write will make the activity seem more enjoyable. Tracing the shapes of the letters in sand, shaving cream and similar substances can also add intrigue to the project.