08/04/2026
One of my favorite parts of teaching young children has always been preschool dictation.
Today, we looked at our Carnival & Circus picture and created a story together. Through open ended questions, the children shared their own ideas, predictions, and hilarious observations… and I wrote their words down exactly as they said them. (Because let’s be honest… “Bananas eat monkeys!” was too good not to write down! 😂)
Preschool dictation is such a meaningful early childhood activity because it builds vocabulary, conversation skills, comprehension, storytelling, and early literacy. More importantly, it teaches children that their thoughts, ideas, and words have value.
In our performing arts program, these conversations become the foundation for creative storytelling, dramatic play, music, and movement. Every child has a voice, and every story deserves to be heard.
I love displaying their words alongside their artwork because parents get a glimpse into not only what their child created, but also how they were thinking, imagining, and making connections throughout the day. Those little conversations are often the sweetest part of preschool.
