How Can I be a good example for my child? Hold the pencil correctly. Your child will be watching how you
hold the pencil and form letters. Be a good model. You may need to make
a special effort to use a proper grip.
Does it matter where my child starts his/her letter?
YES! When children form letters correctly, they
are faster and neater. Please refer to the letter formation chart we
sent home in folders during Open House. The letters have arrows and
numbers to show you where to start each letter and each stroke. This
guide will help you to model the letters correctly.
What do I say when I teach the letters? Always say, "I start at the top." Then have
the child observe you form the letter. What you say isn't as important
as what you do. The child must observe you form the letters correctly.
What do I do? PRACTICE! 1. Use a blank piece of paper. Position it horizontally on the table.
2. Draw two lines. Tell the child that the top line is yours, the bottom line is his/hers.
3. Demonstrate the child's name, one letter at a time, on the top line.
4. After each demonstration, allow the child time to imitate the letter on the line below.
**Always say, "I start at the top."
(Instructions taken in part from "Handwriting without Tears.")