The Road to Writing

Book excerpt: The Road to Writing takes early years practitioners on a journey; the journey young children make when they learn their first words and make their first marks. Sue Cowley offers activities and practical advice to inspire practitioners to try a wide range of creative approaches to improve mark making in the early years. There are ideas for building finger strength and eye-to-hand coordination, activities to help children to understand the concept of symbols and signs, and strategies for building confidence in writing and reading. You can find your way through the book by following the signposts and you'll find plenty of interesting diversions along the way to develop children's key skills and motivation. This accessible book includes bulleted lists, photographs of children writing and examples of early marks to illustrate how children's communication skills develop. Sue also gives tips on getting boys engaged in writing, and there is a companion website with downloadable resources and useful links. This book is an invaluable source of inspiration for all early years practitioners and parents of children aged 3-7.