b and d Reversal Printables

Unfortunately, letter confusion is a common issue with many little ones. But don’t worry, these are two letters that are so often confused by children when they are learning to read and write. To help these children who struggle with this, grab our b and d reversal printables at the bottom of this post.

b and d Reversal Confusion

Known as mirror writing, reversing letters is normal behaviour for young children until around the ages of 7 and 8. As writing letters backwards is a part of normal development of handwriting skills, it does not mean that your child is dyslexic. Letter reversal can also be caused by visual processing or phonetic awareness issues.

With age, practice and more time allowed for their brain to develop, this confusion of the letters b and d, normally ceases during second grade. If not, then you might want to consider seeking out more advice after they have reached this age.

What is Letter Reversal?

Letter reversal occurs when a letter is written incorrectly, either backwards or upside down. This ‘mirror writing’ is most common with the letters b, d, p, and q.

These four letters are all the exact same letter, only they have been turned and flipped around in different directions. As children become more fluent with their reading skills, they begin to remember these letters and use them correctly.

Helping Correct b and d Reversal

A fun, hands-on way to help with correcting this confusion is to have them practice writing the letters of the alphabet in a large sandpit, in shaving cream on a plate or in a container of rice.

If they prefer to create the letters, try having them form them using clay, playdough or even salt dough.

Having children make the correct letter sounds as they write the letter will help with building their memory, as will working on their handwriting. They can practice writing the letters on a large chalkboard or whiteboard as they repeat the letter sounds.