Once a child can hold the pencil correctly, they can then move on to the complex skill of handwriting the letters and numbers. You need to continue to encourage them to strengthen their pencil hold by drawing, colouring, completing mazes and dot-to-dots, or other pencil-based activities. Dot-to-dots are a really good way to develop writing skills. Many children find it very difficult to start and stop writing at a particular point. This skill can be developed even before writing letters and numbers.
Dot-to-dots are particularly useful as part of developing handwriting skills as they require the child to position their pencil on a dot and draw a straight line directly to the next dot. Once you start using them you will see how difficult this can be for some children. Writing letters requires a child to start and stop at a designated, sometimes imagined spot and then position them in space and on the line. Easy once you know how but not at first.
Child’s early attempt:
What they are aiming for:
Colouring in the lines also contributes to developing handwriting. You could increase the difficulty by showing the child how to fill in the space by drawing ‘stripes’ to fill the space rather than shading. Stopping and starting at the edge of the space increases visual processing and pencil control. You could get them to draw a squiggle like below and fill it in with colour and patterns. Another piece of art for your walls.
It is still possible to buy activity books which include colouring, dot-to-dots and mazes in stores quite cheaply. When you go looking online you will find plenty of free downloads as well.
See our next blog on how to help your child learn to form letters correctly.
Forming the Letters – Tricky For Some
Keep any skills practice fun and your child will improve their early writing skills without noticing that they are working hard while playing.
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