Using "Lesson Plans with a Letter in Mind" Lessons for Kindergarten and Preschool Age Children

Suggested Supplies and Application of Lessons

Suggestions for using "Lesson plans with a letter in mind" -

These lesson plans are based on one letter of the alphabet per lesson. In most lessons there is an animal, snack idea, color or shape, body part or movement, music, fun activity or arts and crafts, and common sight words (these are words that the student should eventually memorize, by sight). The "lesson plans with a letter in mind" lessons can be used in a variety of ways. For an advanced student, you might want to go thru a lesson every day to three days. For a new or younger student, a letter a week is a better pace. Be sure to alter the lessons to fit your student's needs.

Before you start the ABC lessons, there are a few supplies you will need on hand:

You will need lined paper, for writing letters on every day. This can be printed from your computer, bought at most stores or lined paper you have just drawn the solid and dashed lines onto. Everyday have your student trace doted letters, both capital and lower case, at least 3 times, and try at least two on their own. This is very difficult for a new student, so be encouraging!

Make sure you have plenty of pencils and erasers, as well as a pencil sharpener.

Basic color crayons will work, but more colors equal more fun! You might want some washable markers, watercolors, glue and some basic arts and crafts supplies.

Purchase a large print crossword puzzle book, at least 26 pages long. Everyday tear a page out and circle the letter of the day once. Have your student circle all the rest of that same letter. Young kids really enjoy the treasure hunt of finding the letters. If you run out of pages, you can always re-use the pages a couple of times, just circle with different colors.

Have at least one three-ring binder or folder, to keep your students handwriting in. Keep it in ABC order, so they can see their progression through the alphabet. If you have more than one binder or folder you can easily keep track of your students other prized work.

If your student is attending (or will be) public or private school, be sure to find out what writing style the school uses. There are several varieties and you wouldn't want to be teaching the incorrect way to write the letters.

If you have access to a public library, make a regular time to go, every week. Many libraries have activities such as story time, puppets, and arts and crafts. This is a great socialization tool for your student. Make sure to pick up some books for your letter of the day (or week).

Don't pressure the student, and be sure to use positive reinforcement. You will be surprised to see how fast your young student picks up the ABC's and many other skills.