Best Order to Teach Printing Letters for Kindergarten Success

When teaching kindergarten students to print the letters of the alphabet, it is most effective to introduce them in an order that aligns with their motor skill development and phonemic awareness rather than in alphabetical order. Below is a suggested sequence:

Straight-line letters first (easiest to write)

These letters use simple strokes and help build confidence.

L, I, T, H, E, F

kindergarten printing letters

Why? These letters are made of straight lines, which are easier for young hands to control.

Letters with simple curves

These introduce rounded strokes but remain relatively easy to write.

C, G, J, O, Q

kindergarten printing letters

Why? The curved lines help students develop better pencil control.

Combination of straight and curved lines

Letters that combine straight and curved strokes reinforce earlier skills.

D, B, P, R, S, U

kindergarten printing letters

Why? These letters require a mix of movements, helping students transition from simple to more complex writing.

Diagonal line letters (more challenging)

Diagonal lines require greater motor control and coordination.

A, K, M, N, V, W, X, Y, Z

kindergarten printing letters

Why? Diagonal strokes are harder for young children to master, so they are introduced after straight and curved letters.

Lowercase letters with similar formation

Once uppercase letters are established, lowercase letters should follow in a similar order, focusing on those that share formations with uppercase letters.

Why this order works

Easier to Harder Progression → Supports fine motor development.

Frequent Letter Use → Helps with early reading and writing.

Phonetic Relevance → Early letters often correspond with beginner phonics instruction.

Kindergarten printing letters worksheets

We have two separate sets of printing letters worksheets for students to practice in our kindergarten section.

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