Name Writing

For most children, the first word they learn to read and write is their own name.  We have been using a variety of methods and activities to familiarize the preschoolers with their names.

Students trace their name with a dry erase marker each morning.  The reverse side is blank so students can write their name without a prompt.

Students have a name puzzle, where they can match the letters in their name and Velcro them in the correct order.

Each student has a set of clothespins with one letter of their name written on each.  They clip the clothespins onto a name plate next to the matching letter.

Students are encouraged to verbally spell their name.  (For extra practice strengthening their fine motor skills/finger muscles, students pinch clothespins onto the rim of a bucket or bowl.)

We encourage you to try some of these name activities at home.  Here are a few more ideas to try:

-Have your child "air write," by writing the letters of their name in the air with their finger...or perhaps on the palm of their hand.
-While your child is in the tub you could spray a bit of shaving cream on the side, and have them write their name in it with their finger.
-Pour a small amount of salt or sand in the bottom of a cookie sheet for your child to trace their name in.
-Put a some finger paint in a quart or gallon size zipper bag, remove the air and double the seal with some masking or duct tape.  Then your child can practice tracing the letters on the outside of the bag without a mess!

When having your child practice their name with a pencil, pen, crayon, or marker, be sure to help them hold it with the correct grip to form good habits.  Have fun practicing with names and letters!