Spatial skills
Spatial skills help a child find their way on a page, in an exercise book and in the world: knowing up and down, left and right, and moving a pattern from one place to another. Difficulties here often go with reversing letters and numbers and with keeping writing on the lines.
Arrow drawings and grid copying are classic activities used by teachers and therapists. Start with short instructions and big squares; your child can tick off each arrow as they go.
Worksheet types
Grid drawing by arrowsDraw on the grid following the arrows and reveal a picture. Practises spatial orientation, counting and attention. Answer key included. A4.12 worksheets
Copy the pattern on the gridCopy the pattern from the left grid onto the right one. Practises visual-motor coordination and spatial skills. A4.12 worksheets
Left or right?Circle the pictures facing the given direction. Builds the concepts of left and right. Answer key included. A4.12 worksheets
Also useful
Frequently asked questions
When should children know left from right?
Most children master it around age 6–7, but mix-ups are common for a long time. A constant cue such as a band on the left wrist helps.
How do I read “3 →”?
The number says how many squares to move, the arrow which way. Draw along the grid lines, starting from the green dot.
What if my child makes a mistake?
That's normal. Go back to the last correct point and count squares together aloud — or simply start again on a fresh copy.