Stitching Writers and Speakers

Moderation state
funded
Grant Applicant
Edith Martinez
Grant Co-applicants
Veronica Ortega
Amalia Niewendorp
School Site
Kings Beach Elementary
Grant Category
Literacy
Grant Date
2026-06-09T12:00:00
Description

This project introduces kindergarten students to basic embroidery using child-safe materials, including embroidery hoops,  needles, yarn, and reusable fabric templates. Through structured, hands-on stitching activities, students will develop the critical fine motor skills that directly support handwriting readiness. Furthermore, this tactile learning experience will be paired with meaningful speaking and listening exercises, allowing students to verbally map their processes and share their creations with peers.

Benefits of Program

All kindergarten students will benefit from this program, particularly those entering school with limited fine motor development. Kindergarten is a critical stage for developing the hand strength, pincer grasp, and bilateral coordination necessary for writing. In today’s highly digital world, many early learners lack the foundational hand control required to properly form letters and express their ideas on paper. This program addresses that gap through an engaging, no-tech, and developmentally appropriate approach. By integrating creative expression with early literacy instruction, we will simultaneously support foundational writing development, oral language skills, and student confidence.

Success of Program

The success of the program will be measured through observable student growth in fine motor dexterity, early writing skills, and oral language abilities. Success will be evident when students demonstrate improved coordination and increased control in letter formation during standard writing tasks. Additionally, success in oral language will be measured by students' ability to describe their work using complete sentences and actively participate in peer discussions about their designs. By presenting their work to classmates, students will demonstrate growing confidence in their ability to express ideas clearly, directly enhancing our ELA curriculum's speaking and listening standards.

Implementation

This embroidery initiative will be implemented as a series of intentionally structured, developmentally appropriate lessons integrated directly into our kindergarten handwriting blocks. Lessons will take place in small-group settings to allow for individualized support. The implementation sequence will include: Introduction: Teaching tool safety and basic procedures. Guided Practice: Focusing on stitching straight lines, shapes, and patterns. Letter Formation: Transitioning to letter-inspired stitching activities to build muscle memory for handwriting. Collaboration & Reflection: Incorporating partner discussions where students describe their processes, followed by whole-group sharing to build communication skills.

Can you share this grant with your grade level or subject team?

Yes, we plan to share these materials with support faculty at Kings Beach Elementary. This includes, but is not limited to, Speech and Language Pathologists, Special Education Teachers, and Instructional Assistants, as these fine-motor and oral language exercises are highly adaptable for diverse learners.

Sustainability
Core materials such as embroidery hoops, needles, and plastic templates are durable and will be reused year after year to ensure the project's long-term sustainability.
Amount Funded
$563.00
Individual Budget Items(s)
$527 - Embroidery Starter Kit
Shipping
$0.00
Taxes
$36.01
Other funding sources

We will utilize other funding sources, such as Kings Beach Elementary PTO funds, to replenish non-reusable consumables like yarn and extra fabric, if needed. 

File Uploads
Emroidery.pdf (863.13 KB)