Since my big
boy is currently interested in letters (identifying-he points them out
everywhere, sounding out-he’s working on beginning sounds at school) and loves
drawing I figure it is time to introduce WRITING letters, shapes, and numbers. I always attempt to
capitalize on those windows of peak interests of certain skills and topics
instead of trying to force him to learn what he could care less about…he is
only 3 after all! We have started
the way most of us learned to write: scribbling>drawing circles> drawing lines> and tracing.
Though he loves to “write” I am not a fan of tons of worksheets for little
people and meaningless repetitive tasks, such as tracing over the same letter a
million times in a workbook; however, different strokes for different folks.
The teacher in me recognizes that my child is a kinesthetic learner so I try to
tailor activities around motion and sensory.
There are 3
basic learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Knowing how your
child learns best is instrumental in their academic success. As per an article on www.schoolfamily.com
- Auditory
learners prefer listening to explanations over reading them and may like
to study by reciting information aloud. This type of learner may want to
have background music while studying, or they may be distracted by noises
and need a quiet space to study.
- Kinesthetic
learners learn by doing and touching. They may have trouble sitting still
while studying, and they are better able to understand information by
writing it down or doing hands-on activities.
- Visual
learners process new information by reading, looking at graphics, or
watching a demonstration. Children with this learning style can grasp
information presented in a chart or graph, but they may grow impatient
listening to an explanation.
Most people use a combination of styles but have a clear preference for
one. The following activities are great for kinesthetic learners and children who love exploring a variety of mediums.
Here are our five favorite fun ways we’ve been learning and practicing
handwriting skills…
#1 Shaving Cream-
I used to do this all the time when I was teaching 1st – 3rd
grade as a way to practice spelling words.
Simply spray some shaving cream over a large surface, spread it out with
your hands, and then use your finger to write! Easy and Fun alternative to
paper and pencil. When your finished just smear with your hand and do it again.
*If you aren't a fan of the mess you can fill a gallon size zip lock back with colored hair gel or shaving cream mixed with a little food coloring, seal tightly, and then use your finger to trace over the bag. Same concept...less mess!
#2 Salt Tray-
Same premise as the shaving cream except you fill a shallow tray with a
layer of salt and use your finger to write. This feels great as a sensory
activity and Sean loves it. Just gently shake the tray to clear out your
markings.
#3 Tracing Apps on a tablet
There are tons of free and cheap apps geared towards tracing shapes,
numbers, and letters.
#4 Water Painting
Great way to utilize your easel or chalkboard, simply write using chalk
and have your child use a wet paintbrush or wet Q-tip to paint over (tracing)
and erase what was written in chalk. Guide them verbally while they work in
which direction to go. It leaves a water stain behind that you can then have
your child use chalk to trace over again.
#5 Dot to Dot
I used a marker to place dots on a sheet of paper on the easel and
guided Sean as he painted to connect the dots to form shapes and letters. This
one is good for those who love art! This can be adapted for older children by drawing dots and numbering them for a quick homemade connect the dots to form shapes and letters with straight lines.
All of these can be adapted for kids of all ages and abilities as a
twist on practicing spelling words, learning cursive, or just as another
outlet for creative fun!
What are some ways you and your littles use to practice writing?
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