Print Walk

Supports this milestone

• demonstrates an understanding of how print is used (functions of print) and the rules that govern how print works (conventions of print). — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

• The everyday environment (room, hallway, or neighborhood)
• Optional clipboard and crayon to "write down" finds

Steps

• Walk together and pause when you reach print.
• Point to the words and say "These letters tell us something."
• Ask the child what they think it says and read it aloud.
• Invite the child to find more print along the way.

Variations

• Hunt for the first letter of the child's name on packages and signs.

Differentiation

• For beginners, focus on one familiar logo or their own name card.
• For older children, ask them to point to where reading starts on a sign.

Accessibility

• Use large-print or high-contrast targets, or tactile labels, for low vision.

Practices these skills

• Recognizes Print in the Environment

Evidence

• Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs (4th ed.) — National Association for the Education of Young Children · 2022 · National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
• Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services