Handwriting Without Tears

The name of the Early Childhood program's handwriting program sounds appealing, but can it really be that different from traditional methods? Surprisingly enough, Handwriting Without Tears^® introduces children to handwriting skills in a developmentally appropriate and fun way through singing, playing, and working with the curriculum materials, as well as through more traditional practice. Questions parents might ask include:

Why is my child learning to write in all uppercase letters?

Handwriting Without Tears® stresses recognition of both upper and lowercase letters. Starting with uppercase letters for initial formation helps children learn proper letter grip because:

there are fewer shapes used to form uppercase letters
the uppercase letters are more distinct ( an uppercase “B” and “D” look more distinct from each other than a lowercase “b” and “d”
all letters are the same height

We always begin at the top, left side of the paper when beginning to write a letter

Is there really a “proper grip”?

A proper grip uses the muscles in the fingers to control the writing instrument as opposed to the muscles in the wrist. By using the proper grip, children's hands will tire less quickly.

How can I help my child at home?

Many of the activities you already do at home such as playing with play dough or a stress ball, practicing shoe lace tying, and picking up small objects such as beans or macaroni can help strengthen muscles in the fingers. When forming uppercase letters, remind your child: “We always start the letters at the top!”

When will my child begin practicing lower case letters at school?

Children will work continually on lowercase letter recognition during early childhood but typically won't start formation of lowercase letters until kindergarten. If your child is already writing lowercase letters, you don't need to stop him or her from doing so. Free exploration of writing is important, however, lowercase letter formation is not formally introduced until Kindergarten.

Why implement a handwriting curriculum?

Supplemental handwriting instruction has a more pronounced effect on all measures of handwriting performance including handwriting, letter knowledge, writing, and attitudes toward writing
Less chance of children needing remediation later on
Fewer letter reversals seen

Handwriting Without Tears^® is introduced in PreK-3 (formerly Nursery) during small and some large group activities. It continues in PreK-4 in the Early Childhood Program and is used through second grade in the Elementary Program. In the few years we have been utilizing this curriculum, teachers in the upper grades report handwriting that is very much improved!

- Jill Herzberg, PreK-3 Teacher

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