By Beth S. Pollak
In today’s remote learning environment, how can kids practice writing by hand? While many kids have become miniature tech gurus, and can click, tap, swipe and type away, what about their handwriting?
Caribu can give children a handwriting head start with our new alphabet Tracing Pages. Trace the letters A through Z in your next Caribu video-call!
The pages are designed to help kids learn to shape the letters and work on their fine motor skills. Practice writing both upper- and lower-case letter forms, and switch between colors to add some fun. You also can adjust the thickness of the print so that it is comfortable for budding writers.
Developing Emergent Writing Skills
The development of emergent writing skills, like when children learn to write their own names, is essential to lay the foundation for kids to become good writers. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), taking time to practice forming letters, learning letter-sound correspondences, and building finger dexterity is crucial so kids can recognize and write the entire alphabet and begin to write words. With Caribu’s Tracing Pages, families can work on all of these areas while connecting in an interactive video-call.
Practicing Sight-Sound Correspondence
Each of the Tracing Pages features words and pictures that begin with the letter you are practicing: “A is for alligator!” “T is for truck!” “P is for pumpkin!”
Practice the words to help kids develop sight-sound correspondence skills for each of the letters of the alphabet. The more that children work on matching letter sounds with letter shapes, the more they will build connections to support their ability to read and write. Plus, the pictures help kids broaden their vocabulary and comprehension.
Practice With A Touch Screen Or Touch Pad
When using Caribu’s Tracing Pages with a tablet or phone, kids can practice tracing the letters directly on screen using their fingertips. If they are ready to try a writing utensil, give them a stylus so they can practice their grip as they write. Kids who use Caribu with a laptop or desktop computer can trace the letters with the mouse or touchpad.
Whether kids’ classes are in-person or online, Caribu’s library of books and activities offers delightful opportunities for you to connect with loved ones and share in their learning. In addition to the Tracing Pages, try Caribu’s math activities, word searches, coloring pages, mazes and more to support skill building. Practice together and watch as they grow from call to call. Don’t miss out on these magical moments! Sign up for Caribu and schedule a call so you can read, write, puzzle, and draw together in an interactive playdate.
Beth S. Pollak is a writer and educator based in California. In addition to working with Caribu, she consults with educational organizations and EdTech companies. Beth has worked as a teacher and journalist in Chicago, New York, and San Francisco. She holds degrees in journalism, bilingual education, and educational leadership. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, biking, picnics, and dance.