Name puzzles are a fabulous way to help children learn to identify and order their name letters. And name letters are the very first place we start when teaching kids letters. (You can read all about that in the order to teach kids letters).
We have been playing with name puzzles for ages! I made this one with Ben the other day and we had such a great time I thought I would share this post I wrote about the activity when I did it 3 (!!!) years ago with Sam!
Happy almost Valentine’s day!
Name puzzles are a hit around here (still). If you have been reading for awhile, you may remember way back in October when we did a pumpkin name puzzle, or more recently in December when we did a Christmas tree name puzzle. Given the season, it only seems fitting that we make another name puzzle – this time —- you guessed it – a Valentine one! This name puzzle makes for a wonderful preschool valentines day craft!
I used name puzzles all the time when I taught Kindergarten. I love how they can be easily adapted to fit any level of ability. Little ones can write their own names, trace their names, or have their names pre-written and recognize them. Kids can cut out their own puzzles with scissors, or practice ripping along lines. They can order their puzzles on their own, or look at their name written out as they match the letters. Name puzzles really are great learning tools for so many skill levels!
To make this Preschool Valentines day craft:
To make this name puzzle, I cut out a heart from construction paper.
Next, I printed Sammy’s name on the heart and drew curvy and zigzag lines between each of the letters.
Then Sammy cut on the lines to divide his puzzle into 5 pieces.
Finally, he reassembled his name and glued his heart onto a white piece of paper.
Simple and easy – just the way we like learning to be! These heart name puzzles could be laminated (or coated with contact paper) to be used again and again as well.
Looking to enjoy your time with your little ones EVEN MORE? Check out my eBook:
Needing some ideas for other Valentines day crafts for preschoolers? Be sure to check out:
Celery Heart Stamped Valentines
9 Valentines Day Activities by Buggy and Buddy
Independent Valentine Preschool Activities
5 Reasons why I Love Grandma Valentines
Anik says
February 3, 2014 at 2:58 pmWhat a nice idea 🙂 Simple and easy 🙂
Sarah says
February 4, 2014 at 12:41 pmThank you Anik!
Amanda Boyarshinov says
February 5, 2014 at 1:11 pmWhat a great idea! My 4 year old needs more cutting practice. Thank you so much for sharing with us on FB! I’ve added three of my favorites to the bottom of this week’s playful preschool post on Exploring Simple Science with TRAINS!!!
Heather @Crayon Box Chronicles says
February 12, 2014 at 11:00 pmSuch a fun activity and great learning tool. Thank you for sharing Sarah. Pinned.
Susan Brooks says
February 1, 2021 at 7:54 amGood morning!
My name is Sue Brooks, aka Miss Sue.
I am an early lit specialist: a glorified guitar playing , art loving storyteller.
Since Covid I’ve been making story time videos for my friends and their families and teachers.
I often highlight web sites for my followers to access.
Your program content is wonderful with so many activities with resources often found in our homes.
I would like to know if I can highlight your website with my listeners?
The Valentines Name Puzzle is so right on and can be easily tweeked.
Please let me know!
To view my videos please visit my new and unpolished FB page…PALS Play and Learn Story Time with Miss Sue and Pipsqueak Too.
With thanks,
Miss sue
Sarah says
February 2, 2021 at 6:59 amHow lovely Sue! What a beautiful thing you are doing. I would be honored for you to share my activity and website with your followers. Thank you so much!