Mark Making in Early Years.
Now that the children have settled into their new routines it's time to start Phonics lessons and Writing lessons. I have already posted some links for phonics games, which I highly recommend that children play daily.
Writing practice is a bit more tricky as it takes so many forms. Mark making and writing can often be a slow process as there are many skills to master. First children must be strong physically in order to cope with hand-eye coordination and gripping pens and pencils. This is why our curriculum provides so many physical development opportunities.
We always recommend that you do not teach writing rules, but instead just allow children to experiment with making marks. Mark making can be painting, chalking, drawing, scribbling, and splashing!
Here are some strategies that you can try at home to help develop a love for writing.
- Give your child a clip board and felt pens to carry around with them. They may just draw pictures, but this is ok as it is still mark-making.
- Get some chunky chalks for children to use in the garden. This will keep them busy for ages!
- Get some post-it notes and allow children to doodle or write letters and numbers...or whatever comes into their mind.
- Offer paint brushes and water. Children will spend hours in the garden painting walls and windows!
Children enjoy writing in a variety of places...including under the table!
Children like to use different tools, including chalks and felt-pens.
You can use items to support children's writing, such as alphabet cards.
Children also enjoy writing on different surfaces. They should have experience of horizontal and vertical surfaces.
It is very important that children enjoy making marks at this age. It is very easy to turn writing into a negative experience. In Reception we deal with making it a positive experience and we encourage writing on any surface! And sometimes in a book, too!
So, this week's home learning is to start making a writing area in your house where children can keep items such as clipboards, post-it notes, felt pens, brushes, etc. Make sure the child knows that this area belongs to them and that it's a place where their work can be displayed. Keep the writing going throughout the year and you will see the progress they make!
Good luck and here is a link to give you some more ideas:
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