This is a really simple activity just to get young ones looking at the shape of letters. I bought an alphabet jigsaw (produced by Melissa & Doug) from Homesense a few years ago, and have found it a fun and discreet way to start discussing letters. I’ve found my boys quickly develop a few favourites (both mine have loved the snake, the jelly and the ice-cream) which then become memorable to them.
It is so simple:
- Using a pen or a pencil, draw around each jigsaw letter in a random arrangement onto a roll of IKEA drawing paper – best thing ever!
- Place the jigsaw pieces back into the jigsaw.
- Ask your little one to match each jigsaw piece to the stencil.
A bit too simple perhaps? but it leaves a little room for development. You can then start talking about what is on the piece, discussing which letter it starts with, tracing the shapes with your fingers and thinking of other words that begin with the same letter. With any activity like this I like to set it up together, do it a few times and then only ever get it out again when they ask for it – otherwise learning becomes a chore.
Above all; it’s the perfect opportunity to watch a chubby toddler hand – because you can’t get much cuter than that!
E xx
SO cute! I’ve just started doing letter work with Heidi at home… TOTALLY stealing this!! We have some wooden Montessori letters which I think would do the same job, though they don’t have the charm of your pictures! I love Melissa and Doug toys- wooden, pretty and educational! That’s all the boxes I need ticking!
Thanks Claire…again I adore the name Heidi! It is just gorgeous. Me too – big fan of Melissa & Doug here! and steal away! xx
Oooh this is a lovely idea. You’re totally on my wavelength Esther. I love finding little activities like this. I have bought a lot of letter related stuff lately- puzzles, wooden letters and flashcards. So many fun things to do with them. Definitely going to try this one! xx
Thanks Amelia! I adore doing things like this together – such fun and they get excited when they starting learning things xx