For Children

For Nursery and Reception (3-5 year olds)

In the Home

Introduction/Starters

This is using a familiar setting, showing children how writing is part of their every day life. Writing takes many different forms, for example, helping us to remember things, for fun, for helping us to be organised etc.

Writing Activities

You can download templates in pdf format for the writing activities, if you wish.

Activity 1: Labels

(1,999 kb)

Make labels for different objects found in your own home. You could write the word out yourself to start with, then let your child try writing it themselves. The labels could be blu-tacked on to the object. Don't have more than 10 around at any one time. You might want to start with just one room.

Activity 2: Memo Board

(226 kb)

Write down a list of the jobs that need doing; people to see; appointments with the doctor/dentist; what you've run out of that you need to buy; important dates to remember etc. Make it as personal to your child as possible.

Activity 3: Crossword

(29 kb)

Writing that is done for fun activities - let your child fill in a crossword with 'letters'.

Extension Activities

• Fill in old calendars and diaries.
• Make a pretend shopping list.
• Make up recipes - real and pretend, eg A recipe to fly:- 2g of slime, 1 cupful of soil with a sprinkling of fairy dust.
• Write letters and address envelopes to real and fictitious people or characters.
• Fill in old catalogue forms.
• Provide notepads, old cards, envelopes from junk mail, ie any sort of paper that children can use to experiment with early writing skills.

What will my child have gained from this experience?

They will have gained positive experiences from seeing and using writing in a familiar place. They will have used writing in a range of different ways - labels, crosswords, lists, etc. They will have had the chance to use a wide range of writing implements, and on different layouts. Your child will have had the opportunity to write for different reasons - to help them remember something; for fun; for information etc. They will gain confidence in writing and increase their pencil control.