How to Prepare a Toddler for Writing

Although your toddler isn't likely to start scrawling out her name in cursive just yet, you can help her develop prewriting skills that will help her to build up to the printing she'll do in school. According the early education experts at Zero to Three, toddlers progress through a series of early writing phases that include random scribbling, controlled scribbling and making lines or patterns. Use these stages as a starting point to prepare your little learner for her first writing experiences.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper
  • Crayons
  • Markers
  • Pencils

Instructions

    • 1

      Give your young toddler thick crayons or wide markers to scribble. Help your tot to hold his writing utensil in his hand -- the experts at Zero to Three note that young toddlers commonly hold a crayon or other writing tool in their fists and not with the the more mature thumb and pointer finger grip. Encourage your child to explore the movements that his hand and arms make, avoiding asking him to draw something specific.

    • 2

      Show your toddler how to hold her writing utensils -- between her thumb and finger -- as she grows more comfortable scribbling. Ask her to practice holding the crayon, marker or other tool whenever she writes and not continue with the fist grip.

    • 3

      Practice scribbling purposeful marks. Give your tot plenty of opportunities to make purposeful scribbles as she moves out of the random writing phase. Ask her to name the scribbles by telling you what she is drawing.

    • 4

      Invite your toddler to draw lines and geometric shapes as he improves his fine motor development and moves toward the preschool years.

    • 5

      Help your toddler to make patterns, such as line, dot, line, dot on a piece of paper with a crayon or marker.

    • 6

      Show your toddler examples of your own handwriting, pointing out letters that are easy for her to remember such as the first letter of her name.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • Should a 2-Year-Old Speak Clearly?
      Every 2-year-olds speech develops at a different pace. Some kids this age speak very clearly while others are not quite there yet. According to KidsHealth.org, in general, you can expect to understand about half of what comes out of your munchkins mo
    • What companies specialize in toddler apparel?
      Heres a breakdown of companies specializing in toddler apparel, grouped by different categories:Mainstream Brands:* Carters: Known for its affordable basics, pajamas, and everyday wear.* Gap Kids: Offers trendy and classic styles, including denim, dr
    • 5 Reasons To Set Toddler Daily Schedule And Tips To Establish It
      A toddler does several things during the day. Keeping track of those activities becomes easy if you have a schedule ready. Setting a daily schedule for toddlers is a great way to make their routine efficient. It lets you plan and manage activities su