Top 10 Preschool Grammar Tips

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Introducing grammar to preschoolers seems like a waste of time, but it’s really not. Preschool grammar lays a wonderful foundation for future studies, and it’s easy to start. Preschool children love to memorize random facts.

1. Move slowly

Recite the information you’d like your preschool child to memorize, but take your time. There are 12-13 years of learning left. We’re laying a foundation. Move slowly and give the information time to be absorbed.

Be the tortoise and win the race.

2. Don’t expect full understanding, but don’t sell your child short

Preschoolers are an interesting bunch. At times they have a wisdom far beyond their years, and at other times they can’t add 2 and 2. They may understand the concept you are teaching instantly. They may not. Give your child the opportunity, but don’t be upset when they don’t understand.

Understanding will come.

3. Teach the alphabet

Begin by teaching the alphabet to your preschooler. Yes, preschool grammar includes the alphabet and learning the difference between capital letters and lower case letters. Drill both and teach the proper names.

Remember to review constantly.

4. Teach consonants and vowels

I never would have expected my 5yo to be able to recite and understand the difference between consonants and vowels, but she can! Saxon Phonics K has been drilling her in the two types of letters. It comes down to not selling your children short. Sometimes they surprise you with their understanding.

Simply recite the vowels every day. You’ll be amazed at the result.

5. Teach nouns – people

Introduce your child to the concept of nouns. Don’t worry about trying to teach how ideas are nouns. Just stick to the concrete: people. Have your child name people and don’t be surprised if pets are named. Spend several days or a couple of weeks on this concept before moving on.

Recite: Noun is the name of a person, place, thing, or idea.

6. Teach nouns – places

Now teach places. Don’t try and use countries or foreign cities as examples, but rather places closer to home. Name stores you visit, places you go, and rooms of the house. Keep the examples to places your child can visualize easily.

Recite: Noun is the name of a person, place, thing, or idea.

7. Teach nouns – things

Now it’s time to teach things are nouns. Things are items such as pencils, pens, pets, grass, pets, and books. See how many items your child can name. Remember to take your time with each step. There’s no hurry, so spend days, weeks, or even months on each concept.

Recite: Noun is the name of a person, place, thing, or idea.

8. Teach action verbs

Let your child have fun demonstrating action verbs. Kids can jump, hop, skip, run, dance, cut, draw, paint, and play. I’d recommend avoiding explaining the verbs of being for a time. Abstract concepts are difficult for most preschoolers.

Recite: Verbs are words of action or being.

9. Introduce punctuation

As children look at books, point out that sentences begin with a capital letter and end with a period. Point out the capital letters. Point out the periods. Answer questions about any other punctuation your child notices.

Recite: Sentences begin with a capital letter and end with end punctuation.

10. Review constantly

Preschoolers are like little sponges. They absorb information quickly. Kids also forget quickly. You’ll think your child has a concept down and not touch the concept again for a month or two. Then, guess what! Your child has forgotten everything. It’s important to review constantly.

Do a quick review daily.

Preschool grammar is a rewarding subject to introduce to small children. Foundations are laid for future studies, and young grammar stage children are eager to learn.

Just remember to take your time, cover concepts slowly, and don’t worry about studying at the table. Introduce and review grammar in the car, or while waiting for older siblings to finish activities. Keep it fun and keep it simple. You’ll be amazed how much your children retain.

Do you teach preschool grammar?