Ten rows of handwriting lines, each starting with a solid A to copy, followed by dotted copies to trace. How to form it: Two slanting lines that meet at the top like a tent, then a line across the middle. Say apple, ant and alligator together and listen for the sound of a at the start.

Check the pencil grip first: between the thumb and the first finger, resting on the middle finger, held loosely. Small hands tire quickly, so stop after a row or two if the strokes get shaky and come back later.