Looking at Writing

Kindergarten

Kindergarteners are often enthusiastic writers and they will weave writing activities into their play. Provide budding writers with experiences that give them something to write about. Invented spelling is normal at this age, as children are translating the sounds of spoken words into writing. Children at this age can read their own writing and should be encouraged to read aloud!

  • Print own first and last name
  • Draw a picture that tells a story and label or write about the picture
  • Write upper- and lowercase letters (may not be clearly written)

 

"When you catch an adjective, kill it. No I don't mean utterly, but kill most of them — then the rest will be valuable. " — Mark Twain

In this section, you'll find writing assessment resources, writing strategies, and additional tip sheets for teachers and parents on how to help kindergarteners build strong writing skills. You'll also find video of children's authors, classroom instruction, and literacy experts.

Select the "Sample" links at left to view real examples of Kindergarten writing at different skill levels.

Writing milestones

Video developed by Great Schools and used with permission. Great Schools

 

"Let children read whatever they want and then talk about it with them. If parents and kids can talk together, we won't have as much censorship because we won't have as much fear." —

Judy Blume