Especially for Preschoolers: Write Right

Preschoolers are just starting to understand the difference between writing and drawing. Many can write their names and some letters. To be ready to learn adult spelling, they need lots of writing practice. Even using spelling and letter shapes that are not always correct.

What is the practice?
Invented spelling is having preschoolers write using whatever letters or symbols they can. It works best when an adult helps the child “sound out” words and shows interest in the child’s attempts. There are many chances to put invented spelling into your daily routine with your child.

What does the practice look like?
By drawing a picture and writing about it with a mix of letters and “sounded-out” words, a child begins learning the rules of writing. In the same way, a child writing his name on a sign for his room, even if letters are missing, learns that he can write things others can understand.

How do you do the practice?
You can encourage your child to use invented spelling in lots of ways during the day. Look for chances for writing or drawing. Since you know your child’s personality best, figure out what activities your child likes most.

• Give your child lots of chances to observe and help you with writing during your day. For example, he can help make a grocery list by adding one or two items using invented spelling. Let him leave a note for another family member to find. He can sign his name to a letter you write to a friend. Such activities let your child practice writing and spelling skills and experience some everyday uses for writing.
• Give your preschooler various writing materials, including nontoxic markers, pencils, crayons, greet- ing cards, construction paper, lined paper, and chalk boards. All of these offer slightly different writing experiences and encourage your child to experiment.
• As your child begins to write, help by showing interest in what he is working on. Remind him to think about the sounds of the letters. Have him spell words the way they sound, rather than spelling them for him. This teaches him to listen for the sounds in words. It also helps him link what he hears with what he writes.
• Encourage your child to “read” her stories or any other written work. This reinforces the link between what she has written and its meaning.

How do you know the practice worked?

• Is your child eager and enthusiastic about writing notes, letters, and/or her name?
• Does your child offer to help you with writing in your daily routine?
• Is his/her writing gradually becoming clearer and more adult-like?