Is teaching handwriting as big a deal as it was when I was in school? As the grandparent of two small boys, I have searched for just the right style and color pencil grips to help them get off to a good start in writing.
Some people are concerned that technology is hurting our children's handwriting by giving them other ways to communicate and by keeping them inside too much. After all, outside activities help tune those fine motor skills. The article I found on ReadingRockets.org reminded me of writing with chalk and playing hopscotch with my sister back in the old days. It does appear that handwriting still has a place in the learning process.
Professor Rhona Stainthorp, who is conducting research into children's writing abilities, says there is growing evidence those who write faster and more legibly get better marks.
This is because poor handwriting itself is hampering a child's ability to express himself.
"If you are a slow writer you have not automated your writing skills adequately - so much so that much more of your mental capacity is taken up by processing that text.
There is also a professional development webcast on Reading Rockets to help with teaching handwriting.
With texting and computers, it's no wonder that kids might think of handwriting as a lost art. Personally, I did prefer reading and grading printed compositions. They were just easier to read. However, handwriting does have its place, and I will continue to buy those pencil grips and encourage my grandsons to do quality work.:)
