Practice forming the first letter of your name with big, whole-arm movements before using a pencil.
Before writing small on paper, big letters help the most. Trace your first letter in the air, in sand, or with a finger -- as big as you like.
Every trace helps your hand remember the shape of your letter.
Mastery looks like: They can trace the first letter of their name starting at the top, following the correct general shape.
Common stumbles: Starting at the bottom or the middle of the letter; pressing so lightly the shape is not felt.