Space Faces

Some children have such a difficult time spacing their words properly, especially at the beginning of first grade. Each year I make a "Space Face" for each child. I encourage the children to use their Space Faces to leave a space between words. As they finish a word, they put their Space Face next to the word to leave the correct amount of space, then they can start their next word. Usually I use a Sharpie marker to make a smiley face on each tongue depressor Space Face, but this year I used 3-D paint and the kids loved them more than usual. The faces are very tactile now and the kids love running their fingers over the 3-D paint.

Submitted by: Jenna

Writing Practice

On large, 5 x 8 index cards, write a letter of the alphabet on the top. Underneath, make the "dotted" letter for the student to trace. Laminate the card. The student can then trace and erase using Vis a Vis pens or Write and Erase Crayons or Markers. Don't limit yourself to just the letters of the alphabet though. You can also write words or even the child's name on the index card.

More Writing Practice

Glue some velvet or other plush fabric to an 8.5 x 11 (or smaller) piece of cardboard. Students can then use this to make letters with their fingers. Just smooth the fabric back down and start again. Both tactically and visually helpful.

Learning the Difference Between "b" and "d"

Tell students to make a fist with their left hands. Then, tell them to point their index fingers into the air. This makes a "b." Have them repeat the steps with their right hand. This makes a "d." Now tell them to put their fists together. They have made a bed. The "b" (or headboard) is on the left; the "d" (or footboard) is on the right.