4 Easy Pre-Writing Activities Without Worksheets

So often, I see people trying to help pre-writing kiddos by giving them loads of worksheets with tracing, coloring, cutting, etc. Whatever the goal is with these worksheets, it can surely be tackled in a much more child-led, playful way.

Instead of worksheets, try these 4 pre-writing activities:

1. Playdough/Clay/Slime/Oobleck/Etc.: When kiddos are given the opportunity to play with playdough or clay or slime or other similar things, they are strengthening all of the little muscles in their hands and fingers that will improve dexterity for future writing. Tip: add some safety scissors to your playdough!

2. Stickers: Add some stickers to your art area and see how your kiddos incorporate them into projects. Stickers provide a very challenging fine motor activity that improves pincer grasp and hand-eye coordination as it strengthens the hands and fingers. Tip: Peel the outside part that surrounds the stickers off to make it a little easier and less frustrating for your kiddos.

3. Vertical Mark Making: Put a large piece of paper on a vertical surface and give your kiddos some different art supplies like marker, crayons, or paint. Let them scribble to their hearts desire. Working on a vertical surface improves strength and dexterity of their shoulders and elbows. Tip: Easels, whiteboards, and chalkboards make great vertical surfaces.

4. Tape: Tape is seriously magical for kiddos. Put out all kinds of tape, like washi, scotch, masking, duct, etc, and watch as your kids experiment, explore, and create their own kind of masterpieces. they are preparing their hands for future writing every time they peel, tear, and stick the tape. Tip: Try really hard not to dictate how your kiddos use the tape. Even if it seems ineffective or wasteful to you, remember that they are experimenting and learning by doing.