When it comes to teaching writing in Kindergarten, several questions arise in this regard. Are there established methods that should be implemented? Keep reading to find out what should be done.
What Should be Expected?
In truth, kindergartens should be more about writing, and teachers ought to be teaching and facilitating writing. The challenge here is that there aren’t too many scientific research resources based on beginning writing instruction.
There exist several observational studies which give us an idea of what could be possible. Also, several correlational studies show what could be termed as valuable.
Opportunity and Time for Writing
Regardless of how you facilitate early writing, you need to have a particular time set aside each day to do this. Teachers should set aside 20% of the time devoted for language arts to teaching writing, which is true for kindergarten classes. This should represent about 45 minutes of the time allotted for teaching language arts.
The remaining part of the class should be devoted to teaching decoding, oral fluency, reading comprehension, and oral language. The writing time will compose of the student-writing period and the time used in sharing the compositions. It will also be made up of instructions targeted at improving printing or manuscript skills.
Oral Composition
The best way to start children’s writing is through oral composition. Oral writing appears easier with young children than writing using the hands. It also helps them quickly understand the concept behind writing which bears quick fruits in their writing using their hands.
Writing Environment
Children need the perfect writing environment if they are to make the most of their experience. Also, you need to provide several writing resources for children. For instance, several kindergartens have a writing center with different types of writing and paper tools.
Also, if you have a classroom restaurant, you should provide order pads and pencils. If you have a classroom post office, you should have envelopes, paper, and other materials. The whole idea is to provide several opportunities for the children to write.
Pretend Writing
When you begin allowing children to write independently, you could start them out with small groups and individuals. You could sit down with three children at a table and give each of them a pencil and paper for writing.
Accept It All
One thing that could help speed up the children’s learning development is to allow them to express themselves. You may find it hard to recognize what the children have written initially, but consistency brings out the best in them.
Concluding Thoughts
The journey towards helping your children to write well in Kindergarten requires patience and dedication. Following the tips outlined in this piece will help speed up that process.
