Children should start emerging into writing when they have built up the strength and stability in their shoulders, elbows, wrists and within the small muscles of the hands.

Mark-making and sending a letter helps children to:

• Realise that what you say can be written down
• Understand that you can write a message to someone who is not there
• Practise forming letter shapes

Use a sturdy bottomless cardboard box to make a postbox. Cut a slit for the letters with collection days and times on a sheet of paper underneath. Find some old envelopes and address to family and friends and decide what could go inside – a cut out picture, a drawing, a story? This is a great opportunity for children to practise their mark making skills. Empty the box periodically and deliver the letters when you next see the recipients.