Your kids’ first attempt at the writing process is called emergent writing, and it begins when they’re as young as 2 years old! When kids create drawings and symbolic markings, they are imitating the act of writing to represent their thoughts and ideas.
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The Emergent Writing Framework
Conceptual Knowledge
Learning that writing has a purpose, and that print is meaningful
- Kids become aware of things in their environment, like the red street sign says “Stop”
- Recognition that certain symbols, logos,and markings have specific meanings
Procedural Knowledge
The mechanics of letter and word writing
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Learning the alphabetic code, including how to form letters and the sounds associated with each letter
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Practicing and developing fine motor skills and finger dexterity is beneficial
Generative Knowledge
Writing phrases and sentences that convey meaning
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Translating thoughts into writing
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Experimenting with different forms of writing, such as creating lists or composing a story
Set the Foundation
- Encourage drawing, scribbling, and imitating writing
- Practice fine motor skills
- Read together as much as you can – books, signs, menus, anything!
- Label things with your kids’ names and talk about the letters in their names
- Send letters together – have your kids dictate to you and watch as you write
Adapted from NAEYC