Writing can be fun!

Writing can be fun. For some children, it can be very challenging at the beginning when they begin learning to write. The traditional way of learning to write is by holding the child's hand with a writing instrument and learn the formation of symbols. 

In the Montessori classroom, Sandpaper letters are used to help children learn the formation through touch and feel. In the later, worksheets and papers will be provided for children to practice the formation. Personally from experience, the transition from sandpaper letters to providing worksheets and papers for writing may not be a good motivator for children. In fact, it may destroy the interest of a child in writing. As children at this tender age love to play, we could actually help them scaffold their learning through play.

I created writing trays on my shelf for children. They tray can be multi-colored or plain wooden tray. Each activity uses different medium such as sand, salt, tiny beans and etc to further create their interest. In addition, children have the choice of forming the alphabets using their fingers, straws, twigs and etc. This fabulous activity does not only create interest in writing but serve as a great motivator to get kids who needs the extra support to learn how to write. To redraw or rewrite, all they need is to shake the tray and start all over again!