Level 1 Stage 3 Typing Worksheet – R and U Keys

Howdy partners! This free printable worksheet covers Level 1, Stage 3 of Dance Mat Typing, where young typists learn the r and u keys. It is made for children just getting comfortable with touch typing, and for parents or teachers guiding them. Print it out, sit up straight, and practise reaching for two brand-new keys without peeking at your hands.

What you’ll practise

In Stage 3 your child meets two new keys, both reached with the index (pointing) fingers. The trick is to stretch up from the home row and then return your fingers straight back to their resting spot.

• r — stretch the left pointing finger up and slightly inward from f to reach r.
• u — stretch the right pointing finger up from j to reach u.
• Technique cue: keep the other fingers anchored on the home row (a s d f and j k l 😉 and let only the pointing finger move, then snap it back.
• How it fits: this builds on the home row from Stage 1 and the e and i keys from Stage 2, and it warms up the upward reaches your child will need for t and y in Stage 4.

Type each line, then repeat it

Sit with your fingers on the home row and type every line below using the correct fingers. Repeat any line that feels tricky.

How to use this printable worksheet

Use the printed sheet as a calm, screen-free way to drill the new reaches. Work through it slowly and repeat each line until it feels smooth.

• Print the worksheet and place it beside the keyboard, where the lines are easy to read.
• Check posture first: back straight, feet flat, wrists lifted, and fingers resting on the home row keys.
• Type each line, saying the letters aloud, then repeat it two or three times.
• Watch the fingers — r should come from the left pointing finger and u from the right pointing finger, with the rest of the hand staying still.
• When your child can type the lines comfortably without looking down, move on to Stage 4.