Drawing to learn writing

Without a doubt, one of the toughest things I ever faced in school was learning how to write in script (or "cursive") handwriting.  I distinctly remember how I struggled to master the nuances of print--it just did not come easily to me.

In 4th grade, my grades in penmanship (we had a separate time in class for this) were no better than D's.  This was very upsetting to me because I wanted to do better but could not handle the tricky maneuvers of letters.  My mother had beautiful precise handwriting, and I wanted to do so as well.  But it was not to be.

This is a program designed by two women to help children learn how to handle the development of writing--by using drawing!  I think this is an excellent idea.  For one, it gives a child confidence as well as training in how to do two things at once--and use them together in order to gain confidence and experience. 

Second, I think it should be noted that a child's fine muscles and control of them are not fully mature; that's one reason I could not write well.  My coordination had not fully developed, nor my dexterity.  Yes, some children can play piano or other instruments extremely quickly--but not all.  This is why I recommend this system of learning to write and draw.

For further information, please go to http://www.drawyourworld.com/index.html

Learn to Draw

Help children learn how to draw.

Draw Write Now drawing lessons were created by a school teacher who integrated drawing instruction into her

curriculum. The lessons begin with step-by-step drawing

instruction and continue with each child completing the

drawing using their own creativity.

Drawing motivates children to want to write and strengthens the pencil skills used in writing. After drawing, the

children practice writing, building on their skills at letter formation and basic sentence structure.

At the same time, students who already know how to write are motivated to carefully practice handwriting. (The child's

drawing can also be used as a prompt to strengthen other language art skills:creative writing, grammar, and speaking.)

We like Startwrite Handwriting Software for

creating custom writing practice sheets.

Books 1 - 8 have step-by-step drawing instruction and short sentences for writing practice. In addition, each book is a complete unit study for exploring history, geography, natural science, and social studies. The lessons are flexible and easy enough for children to use independently or as a fun family activity. The series has received numerous awards for its value in the home as well as in the classroom.