Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Language Development and Communication (LDC)

Subdomain: Foundations for Writing

Goal: Children use writing skills and writing conventions.

Skill Progression: Use writing skills and writing conventions

Age: 33-36 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 33-36 Months.

Provide a large piece of paper and markers so the adult and child have room to draw and write.

An adult draws a picture with the child’s help. For example, draw a train and tracks. Draw one track and ask the child to draw over it to make it thicker. Make rectangles for the engine and add one circle for a wheel. Ask the child to draw more wheels. Ask what else the train needs and add these with the child. For example, if the child says windows, add a square or circle with a cross ( ? ). Add a tree with branches, clouds, etc. After drawing the picture the child and adult label the picture, and put their names on the page.

The child is able to make circles, a cross and directional lines.

Children can now make all the directional marks needed to make letters. They just need to learn how to put these marks together in a meaningful way. Drawing and labeling pictures is one way for children to practice using refined movements and making intentional marks. Early childhood educators and parents can take dictation to write down what children want to say about their art or ideas. This allows children to hear and see the corresponding words and letters.