Many straight rays shine outward from a sun in the center — a great exercise for drawing lines in different directions from the same starting point. Our sun rays tracing worksheet trains kids to change direction and stay controlled while drawing radial lines. Print it for free and get started right away!
Why this tracing worksheet matters
Unlike parallel lines, all the rays here start from the same point and point in different directions. This trains the ability to place the pencil at the starting point again and again, and to deliberately change direction — an important skill for writing different letter shapes later on.
Drawn outward from a center point in every direction
Practices placing the pencil at the same spot each time
Builds flexibility in hand movement
Prepares for star shapes and stroke combinations
🖨️ Step by step: printing tips
Click "Print Now" — black & white printing works great
Laminated and used with a wipe-off marker, the worksheet becomes reusable
Trace each ray one at a time, calmly and carefully
Count out loud how many rays are already finished
☀️ How the sun helps kids practice
Tell a story while tracing: the sun sends its rays out in every direction to warm the whole earth. Each ray starts right in the middle at the sun and then travels straight outward. This idea helps kids understand why the pencil needs to return to the center after every ray.
✍️ Handwriting tip: getting the line right
Place the pencil where each ray begins
In a straight line all the way to the tip of the ray
For the next ray, put the pencil back at the sun
🎨 Coloring ideas for the sun
Yellow and orange for a bright, shining sun
Pink and red like the sun going down in the evening
Silver and blue for a dreamy nighttime version
A different color for every ray — bright and cheerful
📅 When this worksheet works best
Great for practicing changes in direction
Pairs nicely with season or weather-themed activities
Good practice for star shapes and stroke combinations
Targeted practice material for home or therapy settings
🎨 Creative tip
After tracing, cut out the sun and stick it on a window so real light shines through the rays. For extra sparkle, glue on strips of gold paper as shimmering rays.
Why choose PureSketchy:
- Pedagogically designed: Built specifically to prepare kids for handwriting.
- Free to print: Instantly available, no sign-up needed.
- Reusable: Great for laminating for repeated practice.
- Age-appropriate: Clear lines for small, less practiced hands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What age is this worksheet suitable for?
Ideal for kids around age 4 and up who are starting with pencil practice, all the way through the start of school.
How often should kids practice?
Short, regular 5-10 minute sessions are more effective than rare, long sessions.
What kind of pencil works best?
A thick pencil or crayon fits best in small hands.
Is the download free?
Yes, all worksheets on PureSketchy are 100% free for personal use, preschools, and schools.
Is there a German version?
Yes, you can find the German version here: Schwungübung Sonnenstrahlen.