We are really excited to be part of the BigJigs Play Patrol this year. Last month we shared our thoughts on the safari building blocks and the magnetic wooden calendar. In May, we were sent a drywipe Bigjigs Write and Spell, aimed at children in years one and two. It was an absolutely perfect choice for us because Harrison is coming towards the end of year one and has started getting spellings sent home. This board contains 50 of the high-frequency words from across the two year groups.
The BigJigs Write and Spell follows the ‘Look, Say, Copy, Write’ method, which, from my teaching experience, is one of the best ways for practising spellings. There’s enough space to write some of the words up to three times, although some of the longer words such as ‘brother’ only have space for it once.
The words are printed in dots to help with letter formation and handwriting. It is in joined up cursive script, which is my only (minor) issue with it – I think at that age it is more important to concentrate on good letter formation before attempting cursive script. Saying that, Harrison really enjoyed trying to join his letters up and did a pretty good job of it!
The BigJigs Write and Spell is a handy size, which makes it perfect for popping in a bag and taking out and about with us. What I would like to see is some sort of clip or holder for the dry-wipe pen – we have been hooking it through the ring but it doesn’t hold it very well. I would also love to see an option to buy add on sheets for the board for when they have worked their way through all of the words.
I really like this for making handwriting and spelling a little bit more fun. I’m looking at getting Alex one of the reception ones over the summer to give him a bit of a head start and the mental maths ones, especially when they are just £8.99.
*We were sent this product free of charge for the purpose of this review. All words and opinions are our own.
Look A fab something I’d consider buying -great for learning
Look A fab something I’d consider buying -great for learning
This looks really good! I always try and buy educational toys for my nieces and nephews!
Fantastic. I will definitely check this out. Thanks for sharing.