Reception Children Form lower-case and capital letters correctly. Teach formation as they learn the sounds for each letter using a memorable phrase from the SPS within school Spell words by identifying the sounds and then writing the sound with letter/s. Show children how to touch each finger as they say each sound.

Children need to learn to write so they can communicate and express themselves. Formal writing, taught later in reception, involves transcription (spelling and handwriting) and composition (articulating ideas and structuring them in speech, before writing).

Reception writing Children will learn how to use a pencil, write the letters of the alphabet, their name and begin to form simple sentences.

Look for every opportunity to introduce new words by describing the world around you and your activities. Stories play a crucial role in the development of thinking and writing because they help children internalise the underlying rules and structures.

If children show an interest in writing letters, you can support them to be ready for the next stage of their learning by encouraging them to hold a pencil correctly and form the letter starting in the right place and moving in the right direction. This will support them to develop good habits for the future.

Praise children for all writing they try to do. Find fun ways of encouraging children to practise writing their name e.g. draw it on the playground with chalk and ask them to paint over it with water. Model writing cards, letters and messages.