Letter Formation
These two images show how to guide a child’s letter formation.
The one on the left shows how letters are commonly formed. The small circles are where the child should begin each mark. The colors indicate that the child should always start on the left, with the blue. And they should finish on right side, by attaching the red. In each case writing starts where you see the tiny circle.
Introducing Pencils/Pens
As with all else, children differ in when they are able to use a pencil. The Steps follow-up activities don’t call for tracing with a pencil until the late 3rd or the 4th Step.
Tracing with a pencil can also be delayed for as long as necessary, depending on motor control to mature. I would encourage a child to hold a pencil or pen in any way they want until sometime around 3 1/2 to 4 years old. After that, I would try introducing them to the correct use of pencils, as the normal way of holding them will ultimately give them more comfort and flexibility. Here are some ideas for showing a child how to hold a pencil correctly:
Use an “Alligator Mouth”:
Materials to Help When Introducing Pencils/Pens
A short, triangle pencil is easier to hold correctly — or — perhaps try some pencil grips. Images from Amazon pencil grips.
