Some people think cursive writing is a thing of the past but there are still many classrooms where it’s being taught. There are also many children who are excited to learn a new way of writing. They can’t wait to start practising their letters, learning the correct formations and using worksheets to perfect their writing.
There are many reasons why teachers as well as parents continue to teach children how to write in cursive. Some argue that without understanding cursive, the next generation will find themselves in situations where they are not able to read something. They may become well-versed in technology but what if they need to read a handwritten note? Learning cursive will also allow children to develop their own, unique signatures.
Scientific studies point to the brain stimulation that occurs during cursive writing. It is believed that the interaction between the right and left cerebral hemispheres helps create new neural pathways. Areas like thinking, remembering, and using language improve as pathways are repeated and become stronger.
Once they become proficient using cursive, many children will begin writing faster than printing. Printing requires us to stop and start, and to frequently lift our pencil off the paper. With cursive, writing is more fluid and continuous, which promotes speed.
Using cursive may also eliminate letter reversals that commonly appear in children’s printing. For example, “b” and “d” are often mixed up, given their similar structure. Letters like “p” and q” are commonly reversed, too. Given the differences between the letters when they are written in cursive, children may struggle less to figure out which one to use.
Some occupational therapists recommend that children who are experiencing difficulties with fine motor skills learn how to write in cursive instead of printing and use pencil grips. They may see an improvement in legibility, both in letter formation and spacing, when using cursive. If printing is laborious for a child, giving handwriting a try might be worth it. If they become proficient using cursive, they can focus their efforts more on the content of their writing instead of the physical act of getting their ideas on paper.
When children are older and need to take notes, they may find their recall of information improves when they write the notes, verus printing or typing them. Completing notes in handwriting requires more cognitive processing, which can lead to better retention. Writing notes requires us to listen carefully, process the information, and put it into our own words. Most of us don’t have time to write down everything that is being said, word for word! This gives writing an edge over using speech-to-text software or recording a lecture.
Some people see handwriting as a form of expression. While children will initially learn the proper formations for each letter, over time, they are likely to develop a more unique style of writing. Further, a handwritten card or note may seem more personal than one that is printed or typed.
Lastly, using handwriting is simply fun for many children! They are eager to write “like grown-ups” and leave printing behind. Learning cursive also means that they can read things that are handwritten. Cursive is no longer a secret language that they are left in the dark about! If your students or your own children are excited to learn how to use cursive writing, get started by showing them step-by-step instructions and providing them with activities to start practising!
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