Dive into a world of "S" sounds and shapes with this fun collection of hands-on resources designed for preschoolers. From sensory play activities and creative process art to catchy phonics songs and themed snacks, these tools make exploring the letter S both engaging and memorable. Whether you are looking for free printables or the perfect read-aloud book, you'll find everything you need to spark a love for learning.
You'll discover on this page:
Phonics songs are an excellent tool for teaching letter sounds as children prepare for reading. Sing the songs slowly, focusing on the sound of each letter.
Phonics Song
Tune: Farmer in the Dell
S /s/ snake
S /s/ snake
/s/ /s/ /s/ /s/
S /s/ snake
Bible Version
Tune: Farmer in the Dell
S /s/ snake
S /s/ snake
Sow the seeds so they can grow
S /s/ snake
- Color the Letter Ss Poster yellow to look like the sun.
- Decorate the Ss Poster with various shapes or stickers.
- Glue seeds, sand, sticks, or shells on the Letter Ss Poster.
Filler: Sand, salt, or birdseeds.
Items to hide: Spoons, shells, and plastic snakes.
Activity: Have the child use a spoon to scoop the filler. Or have the child play in the bin with socks on their hands.
Filler: Water
Items: Seashells, toy sharks, seahorses, and submarines.
Activity: Use a sponge to "rescue" the sea creatures or squeeze water.
Filler: Homemade "fake snow" (mix 3 cups baking soda and 1/2 cup white hair conditioner) or cotton balls.
Items to hide: Snowmen, stars, sleds, and large silver sequins.
Activity: Practice "writing" the letter S in the fake snow using a finger.
Filler: Black beans or dark-dyed rice mixed with silver glitter.
Items to hide: Stars, sun cutouts, space ships, and smooth stones (planets).
Activity: Use tweezers or tongs to "harvest" the stars and sort them by size.
Staple end of the toilet paper roll together. Wrap the TP roll in black construction paper. Cut four tiny triangles along the sides of the TP roll, directly across from the cuts on the opposite side for the spider's legs. Cut two black pipecleaners in half. Thread the pipecleaners through the holes. Add googly eyes.
Cut a large paper plate in half and paint black. Cut eight legs out of construction paper and glue to the outside perimeter of the plate. Add eyes and a smile.
Paint a small paper plate black. Poke a hole in the center and knot a piece of string through (optional - this allows the child to carry the spider). Cut eight thin strips of construction paper and glue to the perimeter of the plate. Add eyes.
My "S" Book 
The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle tells the story of a spider who works tirelessly to spin her web, despite being distracted by various animals offering to play. As each animal approaches and asks her to join in their activities, the spider continues her work, demonstrating focus and perseverance.
In Snowmen at Night by Carolyn Buehner, readers are taken on a whimsical journey into the nighttime activities of snowmen as they come to life when the sun goes down. As children sleep, the snowmen embark on various adventures, from building their own creations to exploring the winter landscape. One of our favorite picture books, the story is filled with playful illustrations that capture the magic of snowmen enjoying the night, ultimately culminating in the delightful mystery of what happens when morning arrives.
Where's Spot? by Eric Hill is a classic lift-the-flap book that follows a mother dog, Sally, as she searches for her puppy, Spot. As Sally looks behind doors, under furniture, and in various hiding places, young readers are invited to lift the flaps and discover if Spot is hiding there.
Silly Sally by Audrey Wood is a playful, rhyming story about a whimsical character named Sally who travels to town in a unique way—walking backward and upside down! Along the way, she meets a cast of lively characters who join her on her topsy-turvy journey. With its catchy rhythm, repetition, and silly antics, this delightful book is perfect for engaging young readers and encouraging giggles.
Stone Soup by Heather Forest is a retelling of the classic folk tale where hungry soldiers arrive in a village and convince the suspicious townspeople to contribute small amounts of food to make a delicious soup. Through cooperation and sharing, the villagers learn the value of community and kindness.
The Snowy Day by Erza Jack Keats captures the quiet wonder of a young boy named Peter as he explores his neighborhood after the season's first snowfall. Through vibrant collage illustrations, the story follows his simple joys—like making tracks and dragging a stick—while touching on the fleeting nature of childhood magic.
Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright is a fun story about a snowman who keeps melting because he's too cold. He tries to warm up by drinking hot chocolate, standing by a fire, and wearing cozy clothes, but each time he melts and needs to be rebuilt by the children. It's a playful and engaging way for preschoolers to learn about problem-solving and the effects of heat on snow.
Snowball Soup by Mercer Mayer features Little Critter and his friends as they enjoy a fun-filled day in the snow. After building a big snowman, they use their creativity to make "snowball soup" in a pretend pot, stirring up lots of imaginative play and laughter. This lighthearted story, with its charming illustrations, celebrates friendship, teamwork, and the joy of snowy adventures.
All Printables Free for Immediate Family Use or with a Current License Only
- Strawberries, Strawberry shortcake
- Saltine crackers
- S'mores
- Sausage
- Soda pop
- Spaghetti squash
- Sunflower seeds
- Square crackers
- Spaghetti
- Sandwiches
- Soup
- Salad
- Sour cream
- Salsa
