Learning the alphabet is a huge milestone for early readers and writers. However, singing the classic song and copying letters by hand doesn’t always cut it- especially if your child has yet to learn to hold a pencil!
This activity helps children visualize, feel, and mimic letters, while also working on fine motor movements. Plus, who doesn’t love playdoh?
Try This!
Materials Required
- clay or playdoh (try this homemade playdoh from Divas Can Cook
- plastic/paper plates, or wax paper (something than can be written on, disposed of, and won’t get oily from the playdoh)
- a marker
Step 1
Draw out letters, numbers, or even shapes on your plates or parchment paper.
Children can also do this activity without an outline.
Step 2
Ask your child to make the letter by laying their playdoh over the lines you have drawn.
Alternatively, show them a letter or ask them to create a letter from memory.
Step 3
Older children who are confident with their alphabet can try spelling basic, short words. for example
- cat
- bus
- lap
- nut
- their own name
Looking for more early literacy tips?
Check out the articles below and keep an eye out for a new article next week!
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Did you know that children of any age can have their very own library card with the TNRL. What better way to encourage young children to take charge of their reading than to give them the tools?
#Literacytip: Building a Book Lover
Inspiring children to love reading sometimes takes some work. Check out these tips for building a book lover!
Literacy Tip: Playing with the Alphabet
Creating the alphabet with playdoh is a classic literacy exercise for young child. Check out this fun (and educational) activity!