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Learning how to write my name - Set for School

A significant milestone for four-year-olds can be around learning to write their name as it builds the foundation for school readiness, literacy, and a strong sense of identity. Here in the Kauri room, kaiako encourage and empower all our tamariki to develop this through intentional teaching where literacy learning opportunities are woven into all areas of play showcasing each child's individuality and creative minds.

Here’s how it can link to school readiness, the NZ School Curriculum, and Te Whāriki learning outcomes:

Importance of Writing Their Name Identity and Self-Confidence: Writing their name gives children a sense of pride and ownership of their identity, fostering confidence in their abilities.
Fine Motor Skills: It strengthens fine motor control through holding and manipulating writing tools, which supports future writing tasks.
Letter Recognition: Recognizing letters in their name enhances literacy skills, including phonemic awareness and familiarity with the alphabet.

Links to School Readiness

Literacy Foundations: Writing their name introduces early writing conventions that align with the transition to formal schooling.
Confidence in New Environments: Knowing their name supports independence in daily tasks like finding belongings and participating in classroom routines.
Early Communication: It sets the stage for written communication as children connect sounds to letters in meaningful ways.

Links to Literacy and the New Zealand Curriculum:

Using Language, Symbols, and Texts Writing their name supports the ability to make meaning through text and symbols, which is central to effective communication.

Links to Te Whāriki:

Recognizing print symbols and concepts and using them with enjoyment, meaning and purpose | he kōrero tuhituhi: Writing their name links to exploring the function of print and symbols.
Understanding oral language amd using it for a range of purposes | he kōreroā-waha: Writing their name supports verbal and written connections.
Enjoying hearing stories and retelling and creating them | he kōrero paki: Writing their name reinforces cultural identity and belonging