In this episode, we’re diving into handwriting. Even for those who do not have difficulty, handwriting in the early years is essential. When students have not yet reached automaticity or legibility in letter formation, it taxes their working memory and places a higher demand on cognitive resources. We want to look at how we can free up some of those cognitive demands. 

Effective handwriting practice will lead to stronger spelling, reading, and writing performance. 

Tune in as we discuss the role handwriting should have in our classrooms as well as the importance and some of the benefits of cursive handwriting! We’ll also look at the developmental stages, offer some teaching tips, and share the most beneficial handwriting resources we’ve used over the years!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Handwriting instruction: a commentary on five studies

Berninger, V. W. & Wolf, B. J. (2009). Teaching Students with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia: Lessons from Science. Baltimore, Maryland: Paul Brookes Publishing Company.

Graham, S., Berninger, V., Weintraub, N., & Shafer, W. (1998). Development of handwriting speed and legibility in grades 1-9. Journal of Educational Research, 92, 42-52.

Overvelde, A., & Hulstijn, W. (2011). Handwriting Development In Grade 2 And Grade 3 Primary School Children With Normal, At Risk, Or Dysgraphic Characteristics.Research in Developmental Disabilities, 540-548.

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For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. 

Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!