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Introduction:  My name is Kristen Shawley.  I am a first grade teacher in a rural school.  I had the opportunity to first implement the Handwriting Heroes program in the spring of 2022.  I saw amazing results in the short time that we had to work through this program and I am looking forward to implementing

Brain Science and Handwriting The Areas of the Brain involved in Handwriting Handwriting isn’t just a skill; it’s a brain-boosting marvel that strengthens existing connections and forges new ones, enhancing our reading abilities. But how does it all happen? What exactly occurs in our brain when we hold a pencil in our little hands and

Did you know that learning handwriting can actually enhance your reading skills? It’s all thanks to the amazing concept called neuroplasticity. Our brains are neuroplastic, which means they can change and grow as we encounter new experiences and overcome challenges. Our brains consist of billions of neurons, special cells responsible for transmitting messages between the

There is a widely held perception that uppercase letters should be taught first because they are easier to write. This is commonly accepted as a fact. However, in order to provide the best instructional outcomes for our students, it is imperative to critically examine this assumption.   Are Uppercase Letters Easier to Write? Analyzing three key elements

To develop strong writing skills, students must acquire the ability to handwrite effectively. While technology is increasingly prevalent in higher grades, younger students still rely on traditional pencil-and-paper methods for written communication. Mastering handwriting involves learning letter formation and placement on the writing line, enabling students to focus on expressing and organizing their ideas. Although

The following video shares five core principles for making handwriting instruction highly effective and engaging. You will learn practical strategies that can be implemented in your classroom right away: Video Script Hi! Today we are going to discuss 5 essential practices to keep in mind when teaching handwriting. SMALL GROUPS The first is that handwriting

Many students struggle with where to start their letters! Sound familiar? Using three-lined paper makes it easier for your students to know where to start and end their letters. In fact, the use of lines is critical to handwriting development! These easy-to-understand classroom tips and strategies demonstrate how you can use three-lined paper to help

As an occupational therapist, I’ve witnessed various ways children hold pencils. While some methods are acceptable, others can hinder the development of legible handwriting.  The way a child holds a pencil directly affects his or her ability to develop legible handwriting. Here are some things to look for when observing the way children hold pencils,