first steps to writing: teaching grip to first letters and words

I just shared a cool series over at the Scholastic Parents Raise a Reader blog, and I think it will be of interest to many parents.

It’s all about first steps to writing and what parents can do to help with teaching their kids proper grip to first letters and words.

Super-quick reads.

Here’s the skinny. . .

• First Steps to Writing–Teaching Grip to First Letters and Words:  It’s hard to know where to start and what to do as a parent when it comes to writing. How are we supposed to know what to do? Don’t kids just know how to hold a pencil properly? What’s the deal?

No. Humans aren’t born with the innate ability to hold a writing tool and they really do need help learning the proper positioning.

And? There are tons of easy ways parents can support this learning at home. Early in the game.

Click on the images to read more.

first steps to writing: build fine motor skills

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first steps to writing: how to teach grip

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first steps to writing: letters and words to write first

Also check out Owen’s got grip: using large crayons to help support tripod grip.

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Need some more name-learning inspiration? Check out:

• Family Name Letter Connect
• Names, Names, Everywhere Names
• Family Playing Cards

Want some other cool ideas for creating words and sending messages? Check out:

• write around the room
• wiggly words
• trace, copy, recall
• names everywhere
• sky writing
• story-card writing
• magnadoodle messages
• paint bag writing
• free fence writing
• water painting
• sandy beach writing
• real-life letters
• sticky finger writing
• stick writing
• paint carving
  

Have fun and feel free to link up any other ideas you have–I’m always up for more sneaky fun ways of spending time with my kiddos!