In some United States schools, handwriting is no longer a priority. This could be a result of the digitalization that is taking place worldwide, or it could just be the simplification of schooling, but regardless, it’s a mistake.
Both psychology and neuroscience agree, teaching handwriting in school is much needed. Not only does it support literacy and academic success, but it also gives us an important life skill when technology fails us. Could you imagine a world of people who can’t write? I sure don’t want to. Here are 6 reasons why we shouldn’t stop teaching handwriting in schools.
1. Handwriting teaches children better verbalization and creative thought.
Researchers have shown that handwriting helps us to improve creativity and expression. Functional MRIs have also shown that when children practice handwriting, they can develop into more competent adults.
2. Handwriting is linked to reading skills.
Handwriting and reading are intrinsically linked. Not only does handwriting promote visual memory, but it also helps them to recognize letters faster and learn words with ease.
3. Handwriting takes patience and perseverance, both of which are good for children.
Handwriting is a skill that is taught through perseverance and takes time and patience. Teaching a child to do something that is difficult and takes time prepares them for other endeavors down the road.
4. Handwritten items are still much better than digital communication.
A handwritten card, letter, etc., is much better than digital communication. Technology fails us consistently, but having the skills to write out your cards and letters will never fail you as long as your know-how.
5. Children need to learn to sign their names for documents.
A few years ago, I encountered a girl who was around 30 years old, who couldn’t sign or write a check. I was enamored. How would someone without this skill sign mortgage documents, sign for a bank account, or do anything in the real world? Unfortunately, she wouldn’t have been able to.
6. Handwriting makes us better writers and spellers, thus opening us to academic success.
Practicing handwriting prepares us to be better writers and spellers. Why? Because when we practice writing, we create a visual memory of letters and words. In turn, writing and spelling become much easier.