Handwriting Practice Videos

Handwriting and letter formation can be taught without worksheets or even a pencil.

You can use a large laminated piece of construction paper or the slick side of freezer paper taped to a table.
Here's a video showing how to get the finger paint ready to become a writing surface. The letter shows up white after pressing into the paint with a finger.


Here's a video showing forming letters grouped by starting points and formation. I use D'Nealian or manuscript style printing in my videos. You can use finger paint to teach a child other styles of printing too.





Using index fingers is easier than using pencils for many young children.
A child can learn proper letter formation without the added stress of holding a pencil properly. Using finger paint and a child's index finger allows a child to learn proper letter formation before his or her fine motor skills are strong enough to use a pencil correctly. A child will use the index finger of his or her dominant hand to form letters.

A child can be given extra support while learning to write letters with finger paint.
An adult can show first. A child can place his or her finger right behind an adult's finger as a letter is formed. A child can trace a letter already written. A child can try to make a letter on his or her own. A letter can be quickly wiped away and tried again.

Here are videos of how to print each letter of the alphabet using D'Nealian or Manuscript Printing.
Print the letter a.
Print the letter b.
Print the letter c.
Print the letter d.
Print the letter e.
Print the letter f.
Print the letter g.
Print the letter h.
Print the letter i.
Print the letter j.
Print the letter k.
Print the letter l.
Print the letter m.
Print the letter n.
Print the letter o.
Print the letter p.
Print the letter q.
Print the letter r.
Print the letter s.
Print the letter t.
Print the letter u.
Print the letter v.
Print the letter w.
Print the letter x.
Print the letter y.
Print the letter z.

Find free handwriting and cursive resources in this post from K5 Learning's blog.

Why not add a little phonics and sounding out while you are writing?

Handwriting Practice Videos

Printing Practice and Cursive Practice - Teach Letter Formation with Finger Paint

My favorite type of printing is manuscript form with mostly continuous strokes. This form is similar to D'Nealian printing. If you prefer ball and stick printing, you will find some links further down the page showing the correct formation for this type of printing.  

I taught my oldest son how to form cursive letters in third grade. He liked it, and his writing improved quickly. He transferred what he learned to writing with a pencil.

Getting Ready to Finger Paint


Teaching a child to form letters with finger paint is fun and allows a child to focus on the formation without the added skill of holding a pencil the proper way. Holding a pencil will develop with time and practice. I recommend having a child practice with paper and pencil also. The finger paint method is just a fun addition. You will probably get more cooperation from a reluctant child or a child with developing fine motor skills.

Forming the Letters a, c, d, and g


You can teach phonics rules and spelling with finger paint.


Handwriting Links:
Cursive Writing
The Importance of Teaching Handwriting
Free Handwriting Worksheets

Printing Practice and Cursive Practice - Teach Letter Formation with Finger Paint