When you remember how complicated writing is, it’s a miracle that any of us know how. We use dozens of muscles in our hands, arms, and shoulders to move a pencil. Deciding what marks to make - and where to make them! - requires both sides of our brains to work together. On top of all that, we have to remember 26 letters, half a dozen punctuation marks, and all the rules for how to use them.
So if you or someone you love is struggling with writing, it’s okay. This skill is complex, and KPL has lots of resources to help you get better at it. Check out these lists for items that can help you navigate the different skills needed for clear handwriting. These lists start with the most basic skills you need, building in complexity as you scroll down. Depending on what the struggling writers in your life need help with, you might find helpful ideas on one or all of them!
NOTE: Each of these lists includes items for kids ranging from babies up to tweens and teens, but I've organized them with tools for younger kids at the top. If you're looking for ways to engage an 8-year-old, don't get put off by pictures of baby ball pits and finger-painting tools! Click View Full List to see age-appropriate options.
Building Up Body Strength
When it comes to body control, humans start at the center and work their way out. This means that kids need to work their whole bodies if they want to learn to write! Everything from tummy time to basketball games helps them learn to scratch out words and math equations. (And that means that if an older kid is struggling with penmanship, they might need to spend more time on the monkey bars or drawing with sidewalk chalk. It feels counterintuitive, but it can be true!) These lists will give you great ideas for leveling up kids' motor skills.
Pre-Writing Skills
Before you dive into writing, taking time to prepare is valuable. Help kids learn their letters and numbers with these items, and give them plenty of opportunities to explore mark-making freely.
Starting to Write
Can you believe it? We're finally ready to write! These kits will help kids take their first wobbly steps into the world of writing, as they learn to create letters and numbers on their own.
Fine-Tuning the Details
If you're here, you're officially printing! Congratulations! Check out these lists for ways to make your new handwriting clearer - and venture into the exciting world of cursive letters.
Add a comment to: Practice Makes Penmanship! Tools for Learning to Write