This is the most common method for recording your learning within our Education system. This section includes topics such as holding a pencil, drawing, handwriting, posture and positioning to enhance handwriting, strategies to support those who are left hand dominant and alternative tools that can be used.
Pencil grip is only one part of handwriting. In nursery and school a variety of ways of pencil holds will be seen. Most children develop a pencil hold that is comfortable for them. The type of pencil grip your child uses is only a problem if it is making writing difficult to read, is not at a reasonable speed or makes their hand sore or tired.
Children learn to write at school but there are lots of things they need to do first. It is important for them to have strong bodies and arms. They need to have strong hands and fingers. They need to be able to make marks and draw. They need to see letters and words around them. They need to see you write in every day life.
Please be aware that playdough (both shop bought and homemade) may contain wheat. Make sure you use a wheat free alternative if there is a known wheat allergy.
The following websites are good for additional information and activities for the pre-school stage:
Being able to use scissors effectively and safely particularly in the earlier years can help children to demonstrate their learning e.g. they may be asked to cut out and then order a sentence.
As children progress through school they are expected to use a number of different tools to help them with learning and recording their work e.g. rulers, compass, protractor etc.
Technology is becoming a larger and larger part of our society. IT can support children/young people to engage in and take more responsibility in the learning process. It can also be used as an alternative or addition to handwriting which many children find particularly challenging.
There are a number of great free websites to help your child learn how to type in a fun way!
Subjects such as Physical Education (P.E.), Science, Home Economics and Technical all require different skills.
