Every Child Is a Writer!

Did you know that your child is a competent writer, even before they can create letters on a page? Children are able to write using scribbles, letters, invented spelling, and eventually conventional spellings of words! Below are examples of the stages your child may encounter and what they have learned to move through each stage.

 Scribbles

A child writing scribbles across a page, such as the ones depicted above, is knowledgeable about written language. This child has grasped the concept that things that are written have meaning. Usually children at this stage will read their writing to you. I love to note what a child says on a sticky note to add to the back of their writing project.

Random Letters

This child has added random letters to his scribble pattern. In this image you can see Z, A, L, and a tilted M. This child realizes not only that writing has meaning, but that letters are a part of writing.

Partial Alphabetic Writing

This child wrote "ODPS" to represent octopus. She uses letters to represent some sounds, which shows that this child is making the connection that letters represent sounds on a page. 

 

Full Alphabetic Writing

In this writing sample, Megan has begun to write her name. This invented spelling of her name contains more sound matching to letters in the alphabet than the writing sample for partial alphabetic writing. She is gaining a deeper understanding of phonics and writing.

 

Chunks of Spelling in Writing

This child is able to write conventionally spelled words. This child has had many experiences with writing, words, and phonics.

Many preschool children will experience the first two or three phases depending on their individual development. No matter what stage of writing your child is at, you should be proud! Your child is gaining a deeper understanding of language and writing each day. Continue to encourage your child to write at home by offering writing supplies and asking your child to read what they wrote to you.