What is the best type of writing paper to use with younger students? This post will cover some of the options you have when choosing paper for your students including Fundations writing paper.
FUNDATIONS® is a trademark of the Wilson Language Training Corporation. This post is an independent article and is not affiliated with, nor has it been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Wilson Language Training Corporation.
Writing Paper in Kindergarten
What type of writing paper is best for kids?
Unlined blank paper is usually best for students to start with. Next, they can try writing on simple lined paper and then move to primary lined paper. One time of lined paper is Fundations writing paper for kindergarten. Read on to learn more about each type:
Unlined Paper
I believe that beginning writers should have blank, unlined paper for students to begin exploring drawing pictures, and writing. Paper can be white computer paper or even colored construction paper.
For preschool students, I recommend starting with unlined paper, or if the paper they are using has lines (like a spiral notebook or composition book); don’t require them to use those lines for writing. Those lines are way too small for them at this age. Lines can also feel really overwhelming.
Lined Paper
Usually, closer to Kindergarten age, little ones are ready to start writing on lined paper. By lined paper, I don’t mean notebook paper. I mean just a simple line or two on a piece of paper with enough space for them to write. I usually start the transition by writing enough blanks for the message they want to say. For example, if a child wanted to write, “I like apples.” I would write three blanks for their three words.
After students have a really solid grasp on writing all of the uppercase and lowercase letters, they are usually ready for primary lined paper. You will usually start seeing this type of writing paper closer to first grade. This paper helps children to make their letters the correct size and focus on correct letter formation. One type of lined writing paper is Fundations writing paper.
What is Fundations Writing Paper?
Fundations® writing paper is a type of paper for younger students can use to help with correct letter formation. It uses traditional handwriting lines but adds uses a picture symbol to coordinate with each line to help little ones.
The top line is a sky line and uses a cloud symbol next to it. The middle dotted line uses an airplane symbol. The bottom line uses a grass symbol. The lowest line is for letters that “hang below” such as lowercase y and g. This line uses a worm picture to symbolize “underground.”
Where can you print Fundations writing paper?
If you would like to try this type of writing paper with your student you can use this link to download Fundations Writing Paper. You can also check out Wilson Language Training Corporation website for more information on their program.
What types of things should Kindergarteners write?
If you are working on writing with your students to simply practice letter formation I recommend practicing with simple words like their name or sight words. Students will be able to concentrate on forming their letters correctly rather than coming up with ideas and content to write.
If you are ready to start writing workshop and helping your students understand the process of writing, check out these posts:
Getting Started with Preschool Writing Journals
Create a Writing Center that Students Will Love
Writing Workshop in the Preschool Classroom
I hope this post helped you choose the best writing paper for your students and maybe give Fundations writing paper for kindergarten a try!