✏️ Writing & pencil control · Ages 4–5 · about 3 weeks

Draw and Label

Goal: Draw something familiar and add a label or short caption using letters for sounds you can hear.

For parents: A label names something in a picture. A caption says a little more about it. Let your child say their idea first. Accept the sounds they can write; you can write any other words beside their attempt.

Do together

  1. A picture with a name

    You need: Paper and a crayon

    Ask your child to draw a mat, a cup or something they choose. Say its name together and listen for the first sound. Help them write the letter they know beside the picture. Add the whole word yourself if they want to see it.

  2. Labels that help

    You need: Paper, crayons and a box of socks or toys

    Make a picture label for the box together. Let your child draw what belongs inside and try writing its name. Put the label beside the box. Ask another person to use it to find or put away an item.

  3. Tell me about your drawing

    You need: Paper and crayons

    Invite your child to draw a favourite moment, such as Ali on a mat. Ask what they want the picture to say. Write their short caption as they watch. They can add a word or a letter they know. Read it back together, pointing to the words.

Talk about it

  • What does your picture show?
  • Which sound can you hear at the start of your label?
  • What would you like me to write about your picture?

Words to use

  • picture
  • label
  • caption
  • letter
  • sound
  • word

Play

  • Trace It
    Pre-writing
  • Sound Start
    First sounds
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