Magic Reading Fingers

Tracking print is an important part of the learning to read process.  Kids need to know that we read print from left to right; and the print we are pointing to is what our brain and mouth will say.  

In fact in kindergarten and first grade, tracking print is one of the key concepts of print awareness that students must master.  Typically by the time students reach second grade they are able to track print with their eyes and without the use of a bookmark, finger or tool.

Of course young students can use their finger to track print.....but isn't it WAY MORE FUN to give them a special tool?  Or, as I like to call them....a Magic Reading Finger!  During Halloween, I like to let my students track print with witch fingers!

Before I give them a special tool, I always read them this fantastic poem from Jodi B. Whalen.  It is a great little poem that tells students the importance of tracking print!  You can download the poem for free by clicking here.   

During the not spooky season, you can use other fun tools to get kids excited about tracking as they read. Everything below can be found on Amazon at a relatively low cost.

1. Eye Finger Puppets

2. Mini Hand Pointers

3. Insect Finger Puppets

What sorts of "magic fingers" do you use with your students?!?!