Assignment:
1. Why would a young child be motivated to write or pretend to write? It is not an easy motor task. Is it simply imitation done for adult reaction? Is it done because there is an inner drive to know or become competent develop an answer to this question, which continues to puzzle teachers. Use examples from your own recollected experiences as a child, as well as what you have observed in your work with young children, to validate your position.
2. In many early childhood programs, teachers expect 3's and 4's to print the alphabet on lined paper or on worksheets. Often they will be required to sit at a table until they finish their "work." Some centers require that the teachers use red pencils to correct and grade these papers, which are then sent home as evidence of the child's academic progress (or the need for further drill at home).
Assume you wanted to explain to such early childhood program teachers why formal handwriting lessons are inappropriate. What would you tell them? (1)What reasons and negative outcomes would you include in your discussion? (2)What alternatives for informal experiences would you mention? (3)What types of activities could you suggest they provide for young children, to get their small muscles ready for printing?