At Chatham Nursery School, we understand that strong early writing skills begin long before a child picks up a pencil. We take a holistic, play-based approach to support every child’s development, building confidence, coordination and a love of communication.

 

Building Strong Foundations through Gross Motor Skills

Early writing starts with the body. We provide rich opportunities for children to develop their core strength, balance and coordination through:

  • PE sessions and Forest School experiences
  • Outdoor play using climbing frames, bikes and seesaws
  • Balancing and movement activities
  • Large-scale, vertical mark-making such as drawing on big sheets of paper or on outdoor walls with chalk

These experiences help children develop the stability and control needed for writing later on.

 

Developing Fine Motor Control

As children grow stronger, we support the development of the smaller muscles in their hands and fingers. We do this through engaging, hands-on activities such as:

  • Playdough and clay (squeezing, rolling, pinching and shaping)
  • Activities that encourage a pincer grip, essential for holding writing tools

These playful experiences build the strength and coordination children need for precise movements.

 

Encouraging Natural Mark-Making

We value the early stages of writing and ensure mark-making is always meaningful and accessible. Children are encouraged to explore marks, patterns and symbols through:

  • A wide range of easily available mark-making tools
  • Sensory experiences using fingers, sticks and different surfaces
  • Purposeful play contexts, such as taking orders in a role-play café or drawing roads with chalk outdoors

By embedding mark-making into play, children begin to see writing as a natural and purposeful part of their world.

 

Fostering a Positive Attitude to Writing

It’s really important to celebrate every child’s efforts, from their first scribbles to more recognisable marks. Our environment is language-rich and supportive, where:

  • Every mark is valued and praised
  • Adults model and extend children’s language and mark making skills
  • Children’s names and work are clearly displayed, helping them feel proud and recognised

This positive approach builds confidence and encourages children to take risks and enjoy the process of writing.