Developing a child’s ability to write and convey meaning begins at an early age. Here at St. Francis we begin with our two-year-olds. When children “name” their scribble drawings, our teachers write their words on the page. This is one way they can begin to associate words with pictures. This is supported by the reading of books in their classrooms and in the school library. As a child gets older, the scribbles become more representational and the descriptions of their work become more precise. Children begin to think in terms of pictures or symbols, and then begin to represent the world around them. Three- and four-year-olds become aware that writing is a form of communication.
You can support your child’s growth by reading books and by taking dictation of their drawings. Talk about the book you’re reading together and make predictions about what could happen. Happy reading!