Handwriting
Handwriting can be so challenging to teach to your little ones. There are many skills that influence handwriting for children. Children are expected to use handwriting to answer questions, communicate thoughts, and share ideas. It’s a part of their occupation; being a student. Using a multi-sensory approach to teaching handwriting has been successful for many children. For example, children may be more engaged in learning letter formation when writing letters with shaving cream. They get to feel the texture as they are forming the letter, smell the scent which may draw more attention and awareness to the activity, and see their letters form in a magical way. They are more likely to retain the information when involving more senses. Below, you will find a suggestion of activities you can do with your child to improve handwriting legibility, sizing, spacing, and line orientation. These resources are NOT to be used as a substitution for receiving services from an Occupational Therapist. Nothing beats in-person, hands on learning.
Warm-up
Preparing the body and hands for handwriting can make a huge impact on their work. I usually like to start with…
Pre-Writing
Pre-writing is an important stage to master before learning how to handwrite letters. Tracing…
Proper Seated Posture
Seated posture during handwriting is often overlooked. Take a look closer look at your…
Spacing
When your child writes, are their letters or words squished together…
Letter Sizing
Once children have learned proper letter formation, they will need to learn how to properly…
Pencil Grasp
Teachers will often refer children to an OT because of their pencil grasp.
Letter Formation
Learning to form letters correctly is a huge part of handwriting efficiency.
Line Orientation
Does your child’s handwriting begin neatly on the lines and then start floating…