We can broaden our concept of literacy beyond handwriting by asking what should young children be doing with their hands? I would like to see those hands in the mud, in the clay, in the legos, using paint, using tools to cook and bake and prepare food, to do wood working, to build with blocks - these are all foundational literacy experiences that will promote deep intellectual curiosity. Holding a pencil can wait.
When I offered these suggestions to the OT who was teaching the workshop for hand writing without tears she told me that if we don't teach young children how to hold a pencil properly at age 3, they will develop poor habits that are nearly impossible to correct. She also told me she had never heard of the concept of emergent literacy. She showed us videos of didactic classroom instruction where groups of preschoolers sat and were instructed how to draw a person (Matt man).
Ive seen lots of great preschool teachers adopting the materials and integrating them into playful approaches, but i believe it is wise to know the origin of the pedagogy we use and also to examine the marketing strategies that infiltrate, shape, and influence our profession.
I only offer my experience as a diverse perspective- with respect for reflective dialogue and knowing for sure it runs contrary to widely accepted and practiced approaches in our profession.
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Carol Murray
Bard Nursery School
Red Hook NY
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-04-2019 12:43 AM
From: Patricia Jack
Subject: Handwriting for toddlers
NO! NO, a million times no! Toddlers practice pre-writing skills by fingerpainting with paint or shaving cream. By drawing in sand or mud. By TRACING on sand paper letters or salt letters. Absolutely NO worksheets.
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Patricia Jack
Boulder City NV
Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2019 09:56 AM
From: Elizabeth Willis
Subject: Handwriting for toddlers
Is it feasible to have toddlers practice writing with worksheets?
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Elizabeth Willis
Owner
3 Sistas family homecare
Riverdale GA
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