Alphabet coloring pages

The alphabet runs from A to Z with one big letter on each sheet and a little meadow underneath. Every letter is filled with folk ornament, such as scallops, tulips, hearts and daisies, while its openings, like the gaps in A, B and R, are left white.

Big block letters with wide strokes are simple for small hands; a toddler can color a whole L or T in a few minutes. Older children can linger over the ornament, giving each scallop a different color, and then write a few words for that letter on the back.

No picture on the sheets stands for a word, so the letter is yours to fill with meaning: write apple, ant or a friend’s name beside the A. Choose one bold color for the edge of the letter and softer shades for the ornament, so it stays easy to read.

Print the letters of a child’s name and hang them in a row over the bed or on a bedroom door. In a classroom, a letter of the week, an alphabet frieze colored by the whole class or a homemade ABC book can all start with these sheets.