We don’t have dedicated lessons on writing numerals because we consider it more of a handwriting skill than a math skill. Instead, we encourage teachers to model correct numeral formation when writing numbers for students. Many teachers use numeral formation rhymes and songs from their existing handwriting programs like Learning without Tears or Zaner-Bloser.
Given the limited instructional time in early childhood education, we believe math time should focus on helping children truly understand numbers and build number sense. We hope teachers will address numeral formation during writing time when developmentally appropriate. To support this, our program includes many fine motor activities like pin pushing, cutting, grasping, and tracing to aid in future numeral formation.
In kindergarten, we do have some numeral writing lessons and encourage teachers to include numeral writing activities on their math shelves for practice throughout the year. For students ready to work on numeral formation, activities like air writing with fingers, writing on whiteboards, forming numerals with Play-Doh, and writing in shaving cream or sand trays can be effective.