The Ultimate Guide to Handwriting Curriculum
Find the perfect program to teach your child to write well at any age
As a child, I loved learning how to write. The tactile experience of tracing sandpaper letters and the freedom to write letters and stories to family and friends were immensely appealing to me. I even went so far as to create handwriting worksheets for my younger cousin as she developed her own writing skills.
However, I learned that not all children enjoy handwriting as much as I did. In the age of voice-to-text, typing, and touch screens, many kids see no point in learning a skill that can be easily replaced by technology. As a teacher and learning consultant, I've seen firsthand how handwriting difficulties can hinder a child's academic success.
That's why I created this guide to handwriting resources for homeschoolers. Whether your child is just learning to write letters, struggling with dysgraphia, or finds writing physically painful, there's something here to help them improve their handwriting skills.
In addition to providing a comprehensive list of resources, I'll also discuss the importance of handwriting and how it can benefit your child in both academic and non-academic settings. I'll also share some tips on how to make handwriting more enjoyable for your child.
So whether you're a homeschooling parent looking for a way to improve your child's handwriting skills or a teen who wants to learn how to write better, this guide is for you.
Many of the early reading programs also include handwriting, so be sure to check out our post on early literacy.
For creative writing and essay composition, see last week’s post on teaching your kids to write.
About affiliate links: Our recommendations are independent and unbiased; however, as an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through the provided links. We review and select all materials we recommend before exploring affiliate relationships. Affiliates are noted with a star.
🐘 Let’s start with the elephant in the room
Why learn handwriting in a digital age?
In a digital age where typing and digital communication have become prevalent, the value of handwriting may seem diminished at first glance. However, handwriting still holds significant importance and benefits that extend beyond mere practicality. Here are some reasons why handwriting continues to be valuable:
Cognitive Development: Handwriting engages different areas of the brain, fostering cognitive development and enhancing memory retention. The physical act of writing by hand activates neural pathways that support language, comprehension, and creativity.
Fine Motor Skills: Handwriting involves the coordination of fine motor skills, helping to refine dexterity and hand-eye coordination. The deliberate movement of the hand and fingers while writing can improve motor skills and strengthen the muscles needed for tasks like drawing, typing, and using tools.
Personal Expression: Handwriting allows for a personal touch and individual expression. Each person's handwriting is unique, reflecting their personality, mood, and style. Handwritten notes, cards, and letters carry a sense of authenticity and personal connection that cannot be replicated by digital text.
Learning and Comprehension: Studies have shown that taking notes by hand improves learning and comprehension in more depth than typing notes. The process of physically writing helps to process and synthesize information, leading to better retention and understanding of the material.
Multisensory Experience: Writing by hand provides a multisensory experience, engaging the tactile sense and the sense of proprioception (awareness of body movement). This sensory input enhances learning and memory formation, making handwriting a more immersive and holistic learning experience.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Handwritten documents hold cultural and historical significance. They carry a sense of tradition and can connect us to the past. Reading and appreciating handwritten letters, manuscripts, and historical documents allows us to connect with the thoughts and emotions of people who came before.
Builds Orthographic Mapping: one of the more recent revelations from research is that handwriting builds orthographic mapping. Jonathan Dubay (the CEO of Getty Dubay shared with us “Whereas roughly 70-80% of the population has innate ability to do this, for the remaining 20-30% of young learners, this needs to be intentionally built. That is why handwriting is so important for all learners, especially for those who struggle with it at first. A great example of this is the recent study from Johns-Hopkin. Although it involved only adults, it elegantly demonstrates the ability for handwriting to facilitate literacy. (Adults who used handwriting to learn a new language did so three times faster than those who used other non-motor methods.)”
While digital tools offer convenience and efficiency, handwriting offers a unique blend of cognitive, physical, and emotional benefits. It fosters creativity, enhances learning, and connects us to our personal expression and historical roots. In a digital age, maintaining and nurturing the skill of handwriting is a valuable asset that enriches our lives and strengthens our connection to written language and communication.
Top choice overall
1. Getty Dubay*
A good fit for: Getty-Dubay method may be beneficial for children who struggle with handwriting, possibly including those with dysgraphia or other learning disabilities. Additionally, its progressive nature, starting with basic shapes and advancing to cursive, could support children who require a gradual and clear learning progression.
Not a good choice for: Getty-Dubay might not be a good fit for learners who thrive on more traditional methods of learning handwriting, as the italic handwriting system is notably different from block or cursive styles typically taught in schools. Moreover, learners who struggle with fine motor control might initially find it challenging due to the emphasis on angled and joined letter forms. However, the methodology is designed to be adaptive and accommodating, so these potential issues may be mitigated with patient, persistent practice and instruction. Getty Dubay team has told us that “the oval shapes on which Italic handwriting is based are easier for young children than the circles and straight lines found in the “ball-and-stick” print style that looped cursive styles,”
Getty Dubay is a handwriting program that teaches cursive writing using an italic style. The Getty-Dubay method was co-founded by Barbara Getty and Inga Dubay in 1979, both of whom are artists, calligraphers, and educators, who developed a unique handwriting method that offers a natural transition from printing to cursive writing. This method has been widely adopted in schools and has been used to improve the handwriting of over 4,500 medical professionals and countless students and professionals It provides a practical approach to learning cursive, focusing on letter shapes and logical progression. It can be used by following the curriculum and resources provided by Getty Dubay. Getty Dubay's new app is an interactive handwriting tool optimized for use with the Apple Pencil or compatible stylus on iPads or Android tablets, offering markable ebooks and guided practice for improving handwriting skills. Getty-Dubay seems to be a good fit for learners who may benefit from a more natural transition from printing to joining letters, particularly those who might find traditional cursive, especially capital letters, to be somewhat confusing or complicated. The method may not be as effective for learners who need more structured, step-by-step instruction or for those who prefer or are accustomed to the traditional cursive form.
Costs: The cost of Getty Dubay resources can vary, starting from $13.95 for individual workbooks and going up to $95 for complete curriculum sets. Parents can download handwriting worksheets for free on the website. The app is free to download and try with in-app purchases.
Pros:
Offers a simplified italic style for a smooth transition from printing to cursive.
Suitable for various ages and abilities.
Provides workbooks and materials for guided practice.
Emphasizes natural letter formation.
Can be helpful for individuals who struggle with fine motor skills.
Cons:
Not suitable for those seeking a traditional cursive style.
While some families feel there are limited options for customization, others see Getty-Dubay method as being the most customizable, in that every letter join is optional for the student.
May require additional resources for comprehensive instruction for some families.
Not specifically designed for addressing specific learning disabilities or challenges, however the oval shapes on which Italic handwriting is based are often easier for young children than the circles and straight lines found in the “ball-and-stick” print style that looped cursive styles, such as Handwriting Without Tears and Zaner Bloser.
Best for Dysgraphia and Sensory Processing Disorder
2. Handwriting Without Tears
A good fit for: Children with sensory processing disorder, who find handwriting painful or are very reluctant to write.
Not a good choice for: Parents on a budget, kids who prefer engaging, visually appealing, adaptive materials.
Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) is a popular handwriting program that offers both print and cursive handwriting instruction. It uses a multisensory approach to teach letter formation, with activities that involve tactile and kinesthetic learning. HWT provides workbooks, materials, and resources for teaching handwriting skills. It is suitable for a wide range of learners, including those with dysgraphia or handwriting difficulties. Some parents feel that the program can be expensive, particularly if they opt for the complete curriculum or purchase additional materials. While the simplified and distinct letter formations of Handwriting Without Tears work well for many children, some parents may have a personal preference for a more conventional or aesthetically pleasing handwriting style.
The CEO of Getty Dubay, Jonathan Dubay points out that Italic is actually more traditional than some realize,
“Traditional” can imply that “this is the way we have done it for a long, long time,” but in fact educational handwriting styles have been changing over the history of organized education. Indeed, Italic could be considered more traditional, since it was the style chosen for the first known handwriting instruction book from 1522 — 500 years ago. And of course, back then, everything was taught in homeschool!”
Costs: The cost of Handwriting Without Tears resources varies, with options available for individual workbooks, complete grade-level sets, and classroom materials. Prices range from $12.45 for an individual workbook to $384.35 for a complete print kit.
Pros:
Saving Time: with looped cursive styles, students have to relearn many letter on order to join them — as many as 48 new letters with 21 new starting points. With Italic, students optionally learn only one new letter in 2nd grade, a new capital “Y”
Multisensory approach makes learning handwriting engaging.
Suitable for children of all abilities, including those with learning challenges.
Offers a systematic and progressive curriculum.
Provides a wide range of materials and resources.
Can be easily integrated into both school and homeschooling settings.
Cons:
Some may find the style less aesthetically appealing.
Can be costly to purchase the complete curriculum.
Limited customization options.
May require additional support for children with specific learning disabilities.
Some children may require additional practice beyond the provided materials.
Best digital app
3. L’Escapadou
A good fit for: L’Escapadou is a good fit for self-directed learners, and visual learners who enjoy digital apps, benefit from interactive and visually engaging educational materials. The apps and resources provided by Escapadou incorporate visuals, animations, and interactive elements to enhance the learning experience
Not a good choice for: Kids who get antsy or distracted online, children with learning challenges such as dysgraphia who need extra support. Learners who require highly structured and explicit instruction may find Escapadou's open-ended and exploratory approach less suitable for their needs.
With over 5 Milllion downloads on the app store, L’Escapadou is one of the most popular digital tools to teach kids to write. L’Escapadou has a digital handwriting app called "Writing Wizard" that helps children learn to write letters, numbers, and words. It provides interactive tracing exercises and customizable practice sheets. The app allows parents or educators to create their own worksheets with specific letters or words for practice. L’Escapadou's Writing Wizard app is suitable for young learners who enjoy using technology for handwriting practice. The cost of the app can vary depending on the platform (iOS, Android), with a one-time purchase or subscription options available. The Block Letters and Cursive Hand writing bundle is $10.99 on the app store.
Pros:
Interactive and engaging digital handwriting app.
Provides visual and auditory feedback for letter formation.
Offers tracing exercises and practice with custom worksheets.
Can be used on tablets and smartphones.
Suitable for children who enjoy technology-based learning.
Inexpensive
Cons:
Limited availability for devices other than tablets and smartphones.
Not as tactile as traditional pen and paper practice.
Requires access to compatible devices.
May not provide the same kinesthetic experience as writing with pen and paper.
Additional guidance may be needed for learners with specific challenges.
Classical curriculum
4. Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting
A good fit for: Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting is a good fit for learners who benefit from clear verbal instructions and a gradual approach to letter formation. It can be particularly helpful for auditory learners and those who may struggle with visual imitation.
Not a good choice for: it may not be a good fit for learners who prefer more visual or hands-on approaches to handwriting instruction, as the emphasis in Rhythm of Handwriting is on auditory instruction and verbal cues. Additionally, learners who require a faster-paced or more flexible handwriting program may find it less suitable.
Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting is a cursive and print handwriting program that provides clear verbal instructions for forming each letter. It offers a systematic approach to cursive writing instruction and gradually increases difficulty while reviewing previously learned letters. The program includes workbooks and resources that can be used to teach cursive handwriting. Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting is a good fit for auditory learners or those who prefer explicit instructions. The cost of the program may vary, with options for individual workbooks or complete curriculum sets. Print materials start at .99 and go to $59.36. E-learning supplemental materials are $12.99.
Pros:
Emphasizes rhythmic movements for learning letter formation.
Connects handwriting with reading skills.
Offers clear verbal instructions for letter formation.
Provides guided practice materials.
Can be helpful for children who learn through auditory cues and rhythmic patterns.
Cons:
Limited availability of resources compared to more popular programs.
May not suit all learning styles.
Requires consistent practice and reinforcement for skill development.
Additional support may be needed for children with specific learning challenges.
May require supplemental resources for comprehensive instruction.
A multi-sensory method
5. The Montessori Method*
A good fit for: The Montessori method is a good fit for learners, including those with learning disabilities, who benefit from a multisensory, individualized approach to learning and a focus on practical life skills. The focus on preparing the hand makes it a great choice for kids who experience pain while writing. the Montessori method is a good fit for learners of various ages, including preschoolers and early elementary students, as well as learners with different learning styles and abilities, including those with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder,
Not a good choice for: The Montessori method, while an exceptional approach, can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring more involvement from parents and caregivers. the Montessori method may not be a good fit for learners who thrive in highly structured and teacher-led environments, or those who prefer a more traditional approach to education with a focus on standardized curriculum and assessments.
The Montessori method is an educational approach that emphasizes independent learning, hands-on materials, and individualized instruction. While not a specific resource, Montessori-inspired materials and resources can be found from various publishers and online sources. These resources often include sandpaper letters, moveable alphabets, and other tactile materials to support the development of handwriting skills.
In the Montessori approach, children first “prepare their hand”, developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination through various activities. They then engage in sensorial exploration using materials that help them internalize the movements required for writing. Tracing and formation of letters follow once they have developed motor skills and hand strength. The teaching of handwriting incorporates a multi-sensory approach, individualized instruction, and integration with language and literacy. Cursive is often taught before print to promote flow, natural hand movement, simplicity, readability, and an appreciation for historical and cultural context. However, both cursive and print are valued in Montessori classrooms, and children are encouraged to develop proficiency in both styles.
Montessori writing materials and instuctional guides can be purchased from several suppliers including Nienhuis, Montessori Services, Alison's Montessori which has specific Language and Writing packages for homeschoolers, and Absorbent Minds Montessori.
Costs: The cost of Montessori resources can be expensive and vary widely depending on the materials and where they are purchased from. The Alison Montessori Writing Package for ages 2-5 is $913. It’s often possible to get them used or at a discount in homeschooling Montessori groups such as Montessori Homeschooling or eBay (where there are many beautiful, used materials). We recommend seeing what the bigger companies include in a writing package and then trying to find those discounted or used.
Pros:
Emphasizes hands-on, sensorial learning experiences.
Promotes fine motor skill development.
Encourages independent learning and exploration.
Supports the integration of language and movement.
Provides a holistic approach to education.
Teaches cursive
Cons:
May require access to Montessori-specific materials and resources, which can be expensive.
Can be challenging to implement without proper training or guidance.
May not align with traditional school settings or curricula.
Additional support may be needed to address specific learning challenges.
Standards-Aligned Cursive and Print
6. Zaner-Bloser
A good fit for: Zaner-Bloser is a good fit for learners who benefit from a traditional approach to handwriting instruction, including those who prefer structured lessons, clear letter formation guidelines, and gradual skill progression.
Not a good choice for: Zaner-Bloser may not be a good fit for learners who require alternative or multisensory approaches to handwriting instruction, as it appears to follow a more traditional and standardized approach.
Zaner Bloser is a widely used handwriting program that offers workbooks and resources for both print and cursive writing. It follows a traditional approach to handwriting instruction and provides practice sheets with gradual progression. Zaner Bloser workbooks are suitable for various age groups and can be used by following the provided instructions. This resource is a good fit for those who prefer a more standardized handwriting curriculum method and structured practice.
Cost: The cost of Zaner-Bloser workbooks can vary depending on the grade level and specific resources selected. The downloadable PDF packets cost $5.95, whereas a full kindergarten Classroom package is $351.25.
What parents like
Offers a traditional cursive style.
Provides a structured curriculum for learning handwriting.
Includes both print and cursive options.
Suitable for different grade levels.
Can be used as a supplement or standalone curriculum.
What some parents dislike
Some may find the style less appealing or outdated.
Limited customization options.
May require additional resources for comprehensive instruction.
May not address specific learning challenges or disabilities.
DIY tip: Make your own worksheets!
For those who prefer a do-it-yourself approach, creating your own handwriting worksheets can be a cost-effective option. There are online resources and websites where you can generate and print customized worksheets for letter tracing, word practice, or sentence writing. This option allows for flexibility in designing worksheets tailored to individual learning needs and preferences. There are many free worksheets available online. Here are some of the most popular sites to make your own worksheets.
HandwritingWorksheets.com: A website where you can create customized handwriting worksheets with various options.
WorksheetWorks.com: A platform that allows you to generate personalized handwriting practice sheets.
Education.com: An online resource that offers customizable handwriting worksheet generators.
Teachnology.com: A website that provides tools for creating personalized handwriting worksheets.
TwistyNoodle.com: A site where you can create customized handwriting practice sheets with different themes and images.'
Recommendations for Learning Challenges
When it comes to children's handwriting, it's not uncommon for some to face challenges or difficulties that require additional support. From specific learning disabilities to diverse learning needs, parents seek suitable resources to help their children thrive. Here are some recommended handwriting resources for various challenges, including dysgraphia, autism, dyslexia, giftedness, sensory processing, and more.
1. Dysgraphia: Parents find that Handwriting Without Tears, Getty-Dubay Italic, and Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting are effective resources for children with dysgraphia. These programs offer structured and multisensory approaches, breaking down letter formation into manageable steps and providing explicit instructions. They help improve legibility and writing skills by offering consistent practice and support for children with dysgraphia.
2. Autism Spectrum: Handwriting Without Tears and the Montessori method for cursive are recommended for children on the autism spectrum. These resources utilize structured and tactile approaches to engage children with autism. They provide clear instructions, visual cues, and hands-on activities, allowing children on the spectrum to learn handwriting skills in an accessible and engaging way.
3. Dyslexia: Handwriting Without Tears and the Montessori method for cursive are well-suited for children with dyslexia. These resources emphasize letter formation, spacing, and overall legibility. They offer explicit instruction, multisensory activities, and a systematic approach that helps dyslexic learners connect letter shapes with sounds and improve their writing skills.
4. Gifted and Profoundly Gifted: Handwriting Without Tears is considered suitable for gifted children due to its clear instruction and accommodation of different learning styles. This resource allows gifted children to develop and refine their handwriting skills within a structured framework, supporting their progress and addressing any specific challenges they may face.
5. Twice Exceptional (2E): Handwriting Without Tears is often chosen for twice exceptional children. This program provides a structured and multisensory approach that considers the strengths and challenges of 2E learners. It offers adaptive strategies, explicit instruction, and materials that support handwriting development, allowing 2E children to improve their writing skills effectively.
6. Sensory Processing Disorder: Handwriting Without Tears is frequently recommended for children with sensory processing disorders. This resource incorporates a multisensory approach that accommodates different sensory needs. It offers adaptive techniques, engaging activities, and materials that promote comfortable and successful handwriting experiences for children with sensory challenges.
It's important to note that these resources are mentioned based on parental experiences and may vary depending on individual children. Consulting with professionals and considering the specific needs of the child is essential in determining the most suitable resources.
What is dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a learning disorder that primarily affects writing skills. It can make writing difficult and laborious, impacting spelling, handwriting, and overall written expression. Some signs that a child might have dysgraphia include:
1. Illegible handwriting: The child's writing may be messy, uneven, and difficult to read.
2. Slow writing speed: The child may struggle to write at a normal pace, taking an excessive amount of time to complete written assignments.
3. Inconsistent letter formation: The child may have difficulty consistently forming letters and may mix uppercase and lowercase letters.
4. Poor spelling and grammar: Dysgraphia can impact a child's ability to spell words correctly and use proper grammar and punctuation.
5. Difficulty with organizing thoughts on paper: The child may struggle to translate their thoughts into written form, making it challenging to express ideas coherently.
6. Avoidance of writing tasks: Children with dysgraphia may show resistance or reluctance to engage in writing activities.
Homeschoolers can seek evaluation for dysgraphia by following these steps:
1. Consult with professionals: The first step is always to reach out to your pediatrician to refer you for an evaluation. As a homeschooler, you may also be able to benefit from evaluations at your local public school, depending on the city. You can also speak to educational psychologists, neuropsychologists, or other specialists who evaluate learning disabilities. They can provide guidance and conduct an evaluation.
2. Local resources: Research local educational or diagnostic centers that offer assessments for learning disorders. They may have professionals who can evaluate dysgraphia.
3. Online evaluations: Some online resources offer assessments for learning disabilities, including dysgraphia. These assessments may provide insights, but a comprehensive in-person evaluation is generally recommended for an accurate diagnosis.
4. Collaborate with support networks: Connect with homeschool support groups or organizations for learning disabilities. They can provide guidance on evaluation options and recommend professionals who specialize in assessing dysgraphia.
Remember, a professional evaluation is crucial for a proper diagnosis and understanding of your child's needs. The evaluator will assess various aspects of writing, fine motor skills, and cognitive processes related to written expression. This information will help develop appropriate strategies and accommodations to support your child's learning.
What if my child doesn’t see the point in learning handwriting?
At Modulo we’re big fans of explaining why children are learning what they’re learning. It shows them respect and tends to have better long-term effectiveness than “because I said so.”
When children question the value of learning handwriting, it's important to help them understand the significance and benefits it holds. Here are some points you can share with them:
1. Practicality: Learning handwriting allows you to communicate and express yourself in situations where digital devices may not be available or practical. It's a skill that can come in handy when writing notes, filling out forms, or signing important documents.
2. Cognitive Development: Handwriting engages your brain in unique ways, improving cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and creativity. It helps develop fine motor skills, coordination, and hand-eye coordination, which are important for various tasks throughout life.
3. Personal Touch: Handwritten messages and letters carry a personal touch that digital text cannot replicate. When you write by hand, you infuse your personality and emotions into your words, making your communication more meaningful and heartfelt.
4. Learning and Retention: Research has shown that writing by hand helps with learning and memory retention. Taking handwritten notes during classes or while studying can enhance comprehension and recall, making it easier to understand and remember information.
5. Historical Significance: Handwriting connects us to our past and cultural heritage. Many historical documents, letters, and manuscripts are handwritten, and by learning handwriting, you can appreciate and understand these important pieces of history.
6. Expressive Outlet: Handwriting allows you to express your creativity and individuality. Just like your voice or art, your handwriting is unique to you, and it can be a form of personal expression that sets you apart and showcases your personality.
Encourage children to see handwriting as a valuable skill that enhances their communication abilities, supports their cognitive development, and allows them to connect with their personal and historical roots. While digital tools are important, mastering the art of handwriting provides a wide range of benefits that can enrich their lives in numerous ways.
Tips for reluctant handwriters
If a child refuses to learn handwriting or dislikes it, it's important for parents to approach the situation with understanding and patience. Here are some steps parents can take to address this issue:
1. Identify the Cause: Determine the underlying reasons behind the child's refusal or dislike of handwriting. It could stem from various factors such as frustration with the skill, difficulty with fine motor skills, sensory sensitivities, or negative associations with previous experiences. Understanding the cause will help tailor the approach accordingly.
2. Explore Alternative Methods: If traditional handwriting methods are not engaging or effective for the child, consider exploring alternative methods or resources. Look for multisensory approaches, digital handwriting tools, or interactive apps that make learning handwriting more enjoyable and accessible.
3. Break It Down: Break the handwriting process into smaller, manageable steps. Start with activities that build fine motor skills, such as coloring, drawing, or using manipulative tools like Play-Doh. Gradually introduce letter formation exercises or tracing activities that allow the child to develop confidence and control.
4. Make it Relevant: Connect handwriting to real-life situations and activities that interest the child. Encourage them to write letters to friends or family, create their own stories, or keep a journal about their favorite hobbies or experiences. By making it relevant and purposeful, the child may find more motivation to engage in handwriting practice.
5. Offer Supportive Environment: Create a supportive and encouraging environment for practicing handwriting. Celebrate small achievements, provide positive reinforcement, and offer constructive feedback. Avoid putting unnecessary pressure or comparisons with others, as this can further discourage the child.
6. Seek Professional Guidance: If the child's aversion to handwriting persists or significantly affects their academic progress, consider consulting with a pediatric occupational therapist or a learning specialist. These professionals can assess the child's specific needs, provide targeted interventions, and offer strategies to address any underlying challenges.
Happy handwriting!
Remember that every child is unique, and their learning preferences may vary. It's essential to respect their individuality while providing the necessary support and guidance to develop their handwriting skills. By approaching the issue with empathy, creativity, and flexibility, parents can help children overcome their aversion to handwriting and develop a more positive attitude towards this important skill.
Selecting the best handwriting curriculum for homeschooling can greatly impact your child's writing journey. By considering the unique features, pros, and cons of each resource, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your child's learning style, needs, and goals. Whether you choose Getty Dubay, Handwriting Without Tears, L'Escapadou, Logic of English's Rhythm of Handwriting, the Montessori Method, or the DIY tip of creating your own worksheets, remember that consistent practice, patience, and encouragement are essential ingredients for success in developing strong handwriting skills.
Sources
Bonneton-Botté, N., Miramand, L., Bailly, R., & Pons, C. (2023). Teaching and Rehabilitation of Handwriting for Children in the Digital Age: Issues and Challenges. Children, 10(7), 1096. doi:10.3390/children10071096
Konnikova, Maria. "What's Lost as Handwriting Fades." The New York Times, 3 June 2014. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/03/science/whats-lost-as-handwriting-fades.html.
May, C. (2014, June 3). A Learning Secret: Don't Take Notes with a Laptop. Scientific American. Available at: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/a-learning-secret-don-t-take-notes-with-a-laptop/
Montessori, Maria. The Montessori Method: Scientific Pedagogy as Applied to Child Education in "The Children's Houses" with Additions and Revisions by the Author. Translated from the Italian by Anne E. George. With an Introduction by Professor Henry W. Holmes of Harvard University. With Thirty-Two Illustrations from Photographs. New York: Frederick A. Stokes Company, MCMXII (1912).
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. "Dysgraphia Information Page." Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/dysgraphia#:~:text=What%20is%20dysgraphia%3F,are%20first%20introduced%20to%20writing.
About your guide
Manisha Snoyer is a PreK-12th grade teacher the founder of Modulo. Manisha learned to write at a Montessori Elementary school in Ithaca, NY and developed her first cursive handwriting curriculum when she was 6 for her beloved little cousin Emma. With over 20 years of experience in education, Manisha has taught children across three countries, covering a diverse range of socio-economic backgrounds. From pioneering an English language program in a conflict region in the Middle East to teaching in both high and low-performing public schools in New York City, she has worked with hundreds of kids of different abilities and ages on handwriting skills, developed virtual learning programs during the pandemic, and founded platforms that have served thousands of families impacted by school closures. She has coached many families through the process of convincing their child to learn to write through all sorts of challenges. and supporting the development of their skills along the way.