Developmental sequences in three‐year‐old children's writing

Abstract

This study documents the development of the children's writing and explores the potential features related to the differentiation process. Stages in this developmental process are presented. Samples of children's writing were collected from 50 three‐year‐old children who were enrolled in early childhood programs. The children were offered a pencil and a blank sheet of paper and were asked to write their name. Writing samples were arranged in developmental sequence based on specified criteria. Levels for each developmental level include scribbling, horizontal scribbling, discrete units, letters, and correct spelling. Practical applications of these stages are presented.