While not all ideas are new ideas (this philosophy has been around over 100 years!), I feel compelled to share a little bit about handwriting in Primary/3-6/Early Childhood. I'm glad to share about writing, since our (Massachusetts) state is on of the last to keep it in the frameworks. Throughout my undergraduate work, Montessori Training, Graduate work, and with professional development, I've been to every possible "out of box" handwriting program the world has created for us. But guess what?  Not all children require the same tools to gain skills.  Ugh.  Is that new?  Nope!   I don't use any of those.   From where I sit, I don't think workbooks have any place in a preschool class or a Montessori 3-6.  The steps listed below can be used in whatever order the child needs. Before I share what happens in my class, please read these two blog posts about what comes FIRST.  These skills and strengths are necessary before trying to write or learn ...

This is my little weekend craft, made for switching the letters around to make new words.  I made one for about 10 possible word endings.  I hope we have plenty of fun with this one.  It is an extension to the pink level reading materials used in some Montessori language areas.  I made it with leftover pony beads, wooden cube beads, pipe cleaner and a thin Sharpie.  Our oldest is sounding out consonant-vowel-consonant words now! http://www.etsy.com/shop/sisforsupplies

We have been using the reading blanket as a place to settle ourselves. We place a blanket on the floor and all of the children sit and read. Part of the game is remaining on the blanket, so we often bring a stack of books to share. It has served as a quiet transition from play to dinner or bed.