Early Lit Bits: Learning with Crafts — Clothesline Alphabet
Clothesline Alphabet
Here’s a fun and inexpensive way to help children learn the alphabet and letter sounds as well as work hand muscles they will need when they learn to write.
Materials:
- 26 wooden clothespins (the kind you pinch to open)
- Clothesline string
- Marker
To Use:
Print an uppercase letter of the alphabet on the top of each of the wooden clothespins with a marker. String a clothesline along a wall, or between two trees outside within the reach of your child. (Be sure to supervise small children playing near the clothesline.) Have your child put the clothespins on the line in alphabetical order. Say the name of each letter as you pin it to the clothesline.
Other Ideas:
Search your home for fun items that start with each of the letters of the alphabet. Pin the items with the clothespin that has a matching letter, i.e. pin a sock to the clothespin marked with S, or a necklace to the clothespin marked with N. If you cannot find a real item to pin up, draw a picture of an item instead and pin the picture to the clothesline. Try making flashcards of lowercase letters and matching them to the upper case letters on the clothespins.
This article originally appeared in our Early Lit Bits eNewsletter. Read the most recent issue online or sign up to receive this monthly update highlighting early literacy tips and resources for parents and caregivers.
Posted by: Sheri