5 Ways to Improve Your Child's Handwriting

Try these activities to build kids' handwriting skills and confidence.

Ages

6-7


  1. Make Practicing Fun
    Offer your child a special pencil or a rainbow of colored ones. Don't just give her words to copy. Try simple word puzzles, anagrams, a game of hangman, or ask her to brainstorm lists around a theme to give writing practice a purpose.
  2. Encourage Drawing and Puzzle Games 
    In order to develop the physical requirements of writing — holding a pencil correctly, posture, control, dexterity, coordination — the more time your child spends manipulating objects, the better. Even using silverware can help him develop his fine-motor skills.
  3. Pinpoint the Problem 
    Common handwriting problems lie in four main areas: letter formation, sizing, spaces between words, and line-alignment. Focus your child's practice on the letters or concepts that challenge her and make sure she's using two hands to control the paper.
  4. The Right Tools 
    If your child's struggling with a regular pencil, try a smaller or shorter, kid-sized one. Ensure he has a good eraser handy so he's not afraid of making mistakes.
  5. Writing Outside the Box 
    A foggy mirror, patch of mud, or bowl of leftover sauce make great surfaces. Whether your child's practicing with his fingers, a stick, or a pencil, inspiring his creativity will lend appeal to writing. 

MORE: Trace the ABCs Printable

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