Handwriting – Write the right way!

In the present digital age where most of our written communication is done through texting or typing we can see gaps in the writing skills, legibility, neatness and pencil grasp of school goers.

Have you wondered tech savvy young children learn to tap, swipe and touch screens before they have even learned to pick up a pencil or tie their shoelaces? Isn’t this a common scene everywhere today?

We have to agree with the fact that technology is bound to continue but the demand for writing skills will never diminish as it is one of the basics of foundational learning since early stages.

Good handwriting

Research says that our brain engages differently when we write as opposed to type .Writing not only improves memory but it helps retain the concepts/thoughts better. This is because it involves complex skills .Good and neat handwriting also contributes to reading fluency as it activates visual perception of letters. Students generally lag behind and miss out on opportunities without fast and legible handwriting. Good handwriting still remains a major form of assessment for many formal qualifications.

Cursive handwriting

Research says that cursive handwriting primed the brain for learning by synchronizing brain waves which creates a stimuli. “Existing literature suggests that such stimulus in the brain is important for memory and for the encoding of new information and, therefore, provides the brain with optimal conditions for learning. The latest research on the brain benefits of cursive handwriting adds to a growing body of evidence and neuroscience based research on the importance of learning to write by hand.

Incorrect pencil grasping leads to deficit letter formation, inconsistent sizing of letters maintaining the line limits and word mirroring which lead to frail and feeble handwriting. There is no substitute for practice whether it is formal writing or informal. It’s never too late to start.

Invest in the right tools

To begin invest in the right kinds of tools. For the beginners and young children triangular pencils work the best. A firm, controlled grip on the pencil, a loose wrist, your elbow as an anchor point, relaxed shoulders consistent, a interesting and engaging content to write and methodic practice with Chetana publications handwriting writing books and lots of positive encouragement is the mantra for a good handwriting.