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"My Name is Special"
Learning to Recognize & Trace Write Name
* Social > I am special - self
* Alphabet > Focus on the first letter of the given name
Ages: 3 to 6 years
This activity will help children to recognize and trace
their first name. This is a very important First Step for
children. It is an opportunity for children to know that their
name is special, it promotes a healthy self esteem and
The theme "My name is Special" is a great way to motivate
children to practice recognizing and tracing their name.
Tracing their name is also a good First Step to handwriting.
Here are some ideas and suggestions to set up the activity:
1. The meaning of a name:
Children like to know the meaning of their names, or why they were
given that name. If you know or can obtain information about
the meaning of the child's name, that is an interesting way to start
Here is a link to help you find out meanings and history of a name: Behind
Example: If the child's name is David or Esther (biblical
names), then you can start by telling them their names are names of
biblical heroes in the Bible and then proceed to tell them or read
an interesting story, such as David and Goliath or the story of
2. You can also find a historical figure that has the same first
name that you feel would be a good role model, such as Martin
for Martin Luther King, Jr., or Amelia for Amelia Earhart, for
3. You can include a simple
biographical book such as any of the picture book collection
by David A. Adler available at your local library.
4. A picture book can also be a great way to help children
appreciate and respect everyone name. Kevin Henke's Chrysanthemum
is a wonderful book to address this issue.
Create a Name Tracer Page:
1. Print lined writing
paper available for preschool (wide spacing) and elementary
You may also want to generate a customized tracer here are Kidzone
2. Practice first name only first. Print name for child
in the first row. Make a slow demonstration for each
letter. Have them trace over your printed example.
3. Encourage children to practice in the rows below
Tip: To use the tracer page many times simply insert on a
transparent page protector or laminate. Make sure to close with some
tape to avoid danger of suffocation. Use dry-erase markers,
these really motivate the child because s/he can quickly make
* If you insert the page in a
page protector or laminate, keep it accessible (in the kitchen) and
while the child is waiting for a snack or meal s/he can practice at
the table on a regular basis.
Print 2 pages of writing
paper for preschool and elementary
Dynamic Tracers too generate a page with the child's name.
*crayons, markers, pencil or dry-erase marker.
*recent picture/photo of child
*plastic page protector