Early Signs of Writing

It might be hard to know when your child is ready to start learning and mastering writing skills, but there are signs that can help you out. First of all, it is important to understand that writing is a messy affair for pre-schoolers. The goal at this point is to help them understand how writing works, that it is connected to reading, and that it is a tool to communicate.

The first signs that your child may be ready for writing shows in her scribbles. When she starts to express ideas through her pictures, is able to use a pencil comfortably, and draws symbols like “X” or “+”, she’s well on her way to becoming a proficient writer.

As a parent, you can empower her to develop her writing skills. Here are some suggestions:

• Create a writing corner. Put writing tools and paper together in a box and let your child use it to decorate.
• Encourage her to draw stories. Let her express herself through her drawings, then ask her to explain her drawing.
• Point our writing in your routine. Explain to her things like shopping lists or emails or note taking, in simple terms, of course.
• Teach her to write her name. It will require patience, but let her at least start to recognize how to write out her name.
• Label her items. When she sees her name on various items that belong to her, she’ll get familiar with the letters that make out her name.
• Let her label her items. Help her out, but let her write her name on her notebook or coloring box.

Reference: http://www.getreadytoread.org/early-learning-childhood-basics/early-literacy/understanding-beginning-writing-skills-in-preschoolers