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Writing doesn’t just have to be about putting pencil to paper. In fact, there are so many writing activities for kids that never use paper, pencils, or pens.
They are perfect for young children, as well as reluctant writers who aren’t ready for pencils yet.
Writing Activities Using Sensory Writing Trays
Sensory writing trays are an incredibly engaging way to teach writing skills without paper and pencil. The sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can add to writing trays, and the theme possibilities are endless.
Children can explore pre-writing shapes and designs using printable pattern cards and a simple sand writing tray.
Let children use non-traditional writing implements to draw and write in sensory trays.
The kids will get a kick out of using cars in a writing tray, and what a great way to work on early writing skills.
A rainbow sensory writing tray is just the thing for children to practice writing with.
Make a tactile robotic writing tray for children to practice writing letters, numbers, and more.
Mix up a batch of pretend snow, or bring some of the real thing in, and let the kids practice writing that way.
Put a “stardust” writing tray on the light table for kids to play and write in.
Break out the kinetic sand for some stamping and spelling fun.
Children fascinated by unicorns are sure to love this sensory writing tray.
Make your own early writing tray using sparkly mermaid fabric.
More Non-Writing Writing Activities for Kids
Even more writing activities that don’t use paper and pencil are available for children. Use play dough, shaving cream, loose parts, and such to get kids writing without having to use a pencil.
Get hands-on with glue and beads to let children work on early writing with names, words, and designs.
These touch and feel homemade letters will help children learn letter formation in a very hands-on way.
A fun shaving cream connect-the-dots game will definitely get little fingers ready to write.
Make your own scratch art writing and drawing paper. Then let the kids use push pins or skewers to write.
Get little bodies moving with this pre-writing gross motor activity. All you need is some chalk to get started.
Kids can use a variety of loose parts to trace lines, patterns, letters, and words.
The kids will love using all of their senses as they’re learning to write.
Windows make a great writing canvas for the kids!
Colorful sensory bags are the perfect way to let reluctant writers work on fine motor skills.
Use scented play dough to practice mark making before ever picking up a pencil.
Making patterns and designs with sparkly sequins is such an engaging pre-writing idea.
Think outside the box, and encourage early writing with paint and cotton swabs.
Bring the fun outside with an easel, some water, and foam letters.
Homemade cookie play dough lets the children work on finger strengthening, as well as a variety of writing tasks, without a pencil in sight.
Using seeds and chopsticks to make designs is such a creative writing activity.
Children can make their own stencils with just a few simple materials.
Simple toys and games can help children work on their writing skills without using pens and paper, too!
What are some of your favorite non-writing writing activities for kids?
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