PRINT AND PLAY / 03 / LETTERS & LANGUAGE
Find the letters in your name
Use a familiar name as a starting point for noticing letters, marks and the sounds in words.
Give it a try.
- Write the child's name in large letters and read it together. Invite them to point to any mark they recognize.
- Choose one letter or character. Look for it elsewhere on the page or in a familiar book.
- Say the name naturally and notice a sound together, if that suits the language and the child's interests. Letter names and sounds are different things.
- Let the child decorate, trace with a finger, copy or simply point to the name. Treat their marks as meaningful rather than correcting every shape.
A QUESTION TO EXPLORE“Where else can you find this letter or mark?”
A SMALLER START
Keep it simple.
Start with the first letter or a familiar symbol. Matching is enough; writing is optional.
IF THEY WANT MORE
Take it further.
Compare two familiar names. Find a shared letter or make a sign for a pretend shop.
MAKE ROOM FOR EVERYONE
Find their way in.
Use the family's language and script. An adult can write while the child directs; speech and pencil control are not requirements.
Something to remember.
The name or word we explored was… We noticed… The child chose to…
An optional conversation or paper note. There is no score, account or information to submit.