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Learn to Write Name Preschool Lesson Plan Printable Activities All About Me

This activity will help children to recognize and trace their first name. This is a very important First Step for children. It is an opportunity for children to know that their name is special, it promotes a healthy self esteem and independence.

The theme "My name is Special" is a great way to motivate children to practice recognizing and tracing their name. Tracing their name is also a good First Step to handwriting.

Here are some ideas and suggestions to set up the activity:

• The meaning of a name:
  Children like to know the meaning of their names, or why they were given that name. If you know or can obtain information about the meaning of the child's name, that is an interesting way to start the activity. Here is a link to help you find out meanings and history of a name: Behind the Name
  
  Example: If the child's name is David or Esther (biblical names), then you can start by telling them their names are names of biblical heroes in the Bible and then proceed to tell them or read an interesting story, such as David and Goliath or the story of Esther.
  
  
• You can also find a historical figure that has the same first name that you feel would be a good role model, such as Martin for Martin Luther King, Jr., or Amelia for Amelia Earhart, for example.
  
  
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  A picture book can also be a great way to help children appreciate and respect everyones name. Visit Kevin Henke's Chrysanthemum activities, it is a wonderful book to address this issue.

1. Print lined writing paper available for preschool (wide spacing) and elementary (K+).
   You may also want to generate a customized tracer here are Kidzone Tracers
2. Practice first name only first. Print name for child in the first row. Make a slow demonstration for each letter. Have them trace over your printed example.
3. Encourage children to practice in the rows below
   
   Tip: To use the tracer page many times simply insert on a transparent page protector or laminate. Make sure to close with some tape to avoid danger of suffocation. Use dry-erase markers, these really motivate the child because s/he can quickly make corrections.
   
   If you insert the page in a page protector or laminate, keep it accessible (in the kitchen) and while the child is waiting for a snack or meal s/he can practice at the table on a regular basis.