The importance of Mark-Making

Mark making is a term used for the creation of different patterns, lines, textures and shapes. This may be on a piece of paper, on the floor, outside in the garden or on an object or surface. We have been having fun using different materials including this gloopy mixture for the children to explore with wild animals.

It could be a simple dot or a line across a paper, all of this contributes to mark making and fundamentally is the basis of developing the writing skill. However, Mark-making is not just about early writing; it is a sensory and physical experience which can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. As well as early writing, mark-making can develop into mathematical representation and creative expression. We believe Mark-Making can contribute to all the areas of learning and development.

The natural world provides lots of inspiration for mark-making with leaf and bark rubbing, flower pressing, sticks, rocks and creations using fir cones and seed pods. We encourage parents to explore the outdoors with their children and see if they can find materials such as leaves or bark to make marks with. Or perhaps get some washable chalk and write on the ground. Children love to be able to have plenty of space for mark-making which enables them to spread out, explore and collaborate.