My Name Card

1. 1

   Children often become interested in the print in their own name first. Make several name cards together.

2. 2

   Write your child’s name clearly on small pieces of paper, saying each letter as you form it so they can hear and see the sequence.

3. 3

   Read the finished name together and invite your child to copy any letters they want beside it.

4. 4

   Make a card with your own name at the same time.

5. 5

   Place your child’s cards on familiar belongings such as a cup or backpack, and put your card on items that belong to you.

6. 6

   When the labeled items go to preschool or are used at home, point out the familiar name so its printed form becomes easier to recognize.

What to notice

• Recognizes their own name on a name card Print and Alphabet Knowledge
• Picks up a pencil and tries to write their name Fine Motor

Tips

• As your child places a name card, invite them to say what it labels: “This is my cup.” This helps them understand what a written name card is for.

Developmental benefits

• Language: Making, displaying, seeing, and saying their own name card helps your child become familiar with the printed form of their name.
• Movement: Copying their name from a model gives your child practice coordinating visual attention with controlled pencil movements.