Promoting Preschoolers’ Emergent Writing

• Published in: YC young children 2017-11, Vol.72 (5), p.74-82
• Main Authors: Byington, Teresa A., Kim, YaeBin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Beginning Writing; Child development; Children & youth; Childrens Writing; Classrooms; Collaborative Writing; Early childhood education; Knowledge; Language; Letters; Literacy; Motor ability; Names; Preschool; Preschool Children; Preschool education; Reading comprehension; Reading Skills; Researchers; Skills; Street signs; Teaching; Writing; Young Children
• ISSN: 1538-6619; 1941-2002

Ms. Han has strategically placed a variety of writing materials throughout the classroom-a scientific journal in the discovery area so children can record their observations and ideas; a graph paper notebook in the block area for drafting blueprints with designs and words; and a receipt book, paper, and markers in the dramatic play area. Summary Teachers play an important role in promoting emergent writing development by scaffolding writing activities that engage young children in building their conceptual, procedural, and generative knowledge. In some classrooms, or for some children, the routine may begin with writing the first letter instead of the whole name or with scribbling letterlike symbols. * Use peer helpers to aid children with the name-writing process. * Model writing your name and promote name-writing activities in several centers through the day, such as having children sign their name as they write a prescription or when they complete a painting. Write out functional phrases on signs related to routines, such as "Take three crackers" or "Wash hands before eating," then read and display the signs. * Have the children paint large classroom signs related to themes being explored, such as the National Weather Station, Snack Bar, Public Library, or Entomology Center. ; Tips for teachers * Strategically place writing materials, such as sticky notes, small chalkboards, whiteboards, envelopes, clipboards, journals, stencils, golf pencils, markers, and various types, sizes, and colors of paper throughout the classroom. * Provide specific teacher guidance to scaffold children's writing.