Claire Martin, Reception teacher at the British International School of Boston, US, suggests ideas and resources for magnificent mark-making
The whiteboard table is a particularly popular resource
The whiteboard table is a particularly popular resource

Mark-making is a means of children expressing themselves. While it is a precursor to more formal writing, it is a sensory and physical experience which links to a wide range of skills, from literacy to maths. Children use mark-making to communicate, tell stories and to express themselves, solve problems, make shapes and depict numbers.

It is the role of practitioners to provide a variety of mark-making activities and opportunities that will excite, entice and engage children. At our school, we have whiteboards, chalkboards and a range of writing opportunities all around the class.

ACTIVITY IDEAS

Scribble monsters

A fun activity for toddlers, which was also loved by our Reception children, was creating our own ‘scribble’ monsters. The children had a great time being allowed to just scribble and explore mark-making in a completely free, open and non-judgmental way. Once the children had finished their scribble masterpiece, they added eyes and mouths to create their monsters.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here