The researchers found that children begin to write "words" that actually follow rules of the written language as early as age 3. When you add tracing to your little one's drawing time, it helps refine those pre-writing skills, laying a strong foundation for drawing and emerging writing. By having kids trace shapes and maze-like paths from left to right, top to bottom, or through jagged and curvy lines, you can help them develop fine motor control. This can also help them learn how to orient their movements from top to bottom and left to right. Pre-writing skills set a strong foundation for developing finger muscles and teaching the correct grasp of the pencil. Tracing is one of the most basic and engaging activities that promote pre-writing skills. It can be made fun and interesting using a variety of home supplies. Highlights: Tracing helps little ones refine their ... pre-writing skills build the foundation for drawing writing letters words spelling introduction to the alphabet