In a world dominated by technology, some may wonder: is handwriting even still necessary? Research confirms that handwriting is actually foundational to a child’s cognitive and academic success. Handwriting instruction in early elementary years drastically increases reading fluency and writing composition skills. This is because handwriting activates neural pathways tied to memory, literacy, and critical thinking skills.
“From the mind, through the hand, handwriting literacy develops.”
-Denise Jasso, OTR/L
Pro-Tips
- Incorporate Multisensory Activities: Engage children with activities like tracing letters in sand or forming letters with clay to strengthen their motor skills.
- Use Engaging Tools: Introduce colorful pens, markers, or dry-erase boards to make handwriting practice enjoyable.
- Daily Practice: Dedicate 10-15 minutes daily to handwriting exercises but make sure to make it FUN! We need strong shoulders, arms, hands and fingers to develop good handwriting skills. Developing handwriting skills doesn’t have to always include writing at all! It can look like mixing up some yummy brownies or making a Christmas tree out of playdoh! Check out some “handwriting” activities my kids have done over the years.
