Top 10 Handwriting Challenges for 11 to 16 year olds
Sometimes it can feel that digital communication is dominating our world. Thus making handwriting a unique skill, but it really shouldn’t be considered unique. Students aged 11 to 16 can excel both academically and personally when they master handwriting. However, as many parents know, this journey can be fraught with obstacles. This blog post explores the top ten handwriting challenges. It provides tips, suggestions and expert insights to help you all overcome them.
A New Perspective on Handwriting Challenges
Good handwriting isn’t simply about letter legibility. Common issues often written about are illegible handwriting, lack of fluency, and cursive writing. But what about self-confidence? Without confidence and the correct guidance making any changes can feel daunting. The good news? These are not insurmountable problems.
The Handwriting Club Advantage
Imagine a place where your child can receive dedicated instruction. One that is age appropriate for 11 to 16 year olds. A place where they can engage in timed writing activities and exercises to improve fluency. A place that offers dedicated instruction and practice sessions. That place is a Handwriting Club.
Now let’s delve into the top ten handwriting issues and how a Handwriting Club can help transform these challenges:
Top 10 Handwriting Challenges
1. Illegible Handwriting
Problem: Illegible handwriting can hinder effective communication and academic performance.
Tip: Practice proper letter formation, spacing and slanting techniques. Dedicated instruction and specific writing exercises will improve legibility.
“Legible handwriting is a critical skill for academic success, as it facilitates understanding and communication of ideas.” – Dr. Virginia Berninger, Professor Emerita of Educational Psychology, University of Washington (Berninger, 2012)
3. Lack of Fluency
Problem: Difficulty sustaining writing for extended periods due to muscle strain can impact the size and consistency of writing.
Tip: Engage in regular practice to develop a smooth and fluent handwriting style. Timed writing activities and drills improve fluency.
“Fluent handwriting is essential for efficient written expression, as it allows students to devote more cognitive resources to the content of their writing.” – Dr. Steve Graham, Professor of Education, Arizona State University (Graham et al., 2018)
2. Lack of Confidence
Problem: Students may feel insecure about their handwriting abilities, leading to self-doubt and reluctance to participate in writing activities.
Tip: Emphasise the importance of effort and improvement rather than perfection. Handwriting clubs boost students’ confidence through positive reinforcement to help them overcome self-doubt and develop pride in their handwriting skills.
“Encourage your child to focus on their strengths and celebrate their progress.” – Dr. Karen Roston, Clinical Psychologist
4. Slow Writing Speed
Problem: Students may worry that their handwriting difficulties are affecting their grades and overall academic success. They often fear they are the slowest in the class.
Tip: Engage in timed writing exercises and aim for fluency without sacrificing legibility.
“Writing speed is an important aspect of handwriting proficiency, as it allows students to keep up with the demands of note-taking and timed assessments.” – Dr. Steve Graham, Professor of Education, Arizona State University (Graham et al., 2018)
5. Lack of School Guidance
Problem: Parents can often feel lost not knowing where to go to. Often teachers suggest typing rather than improving handwriting skills.
Tip: Seek resources and advice from handwriting experts or occupational therapists. Many secondary schools are more interested in the content being written rather than the quality of how it is being written. Occupational therapists specialise in teaching handwriting skills.
“Parents play a crucial role in nurturing handwriting skills, but they often lack the necessary knowledge and guidance. Seeking expert support can make a significant difference.” – Dr. Phyllis Maslow, Occupational Therapist and Handwriting Specialist (Maslow, 2016)
7. Balancing priorities:
Problem: Managing concerns about handwriting alongside other responsibilities and commitments can feel overwhelming.
Tip: Recognise when you need assistance and try to delegate teaching tasks when possible.
“Parents play a crucial role in nurturing handwriting skills, but they often lack the necessary knowledge and guidance. Seeking expert support can make a significant difference.” – Dr. Phyllis Maslow, Occupational Therapist and Handwriting Specialist (Maslow, 2016)
6. Frustration with Correcting Poor Habits
Problem: Parents can feel it has been a long time since they learned how to write. Previously they may have tried giving their child handwriting workbooks that were too young for them and did not meet their handwriting needs.
Tip: Be patient and consistent in providing feedback and reinforcing proper techniques. Offer strategies for breaking down writing tasks and provide guidance on effective techniques to complete homework.
“Break down writing tasks into smaller, manageable steps to reduce frustration.” – National Handwriting Association.
8. Difficulty Understanding Handwriting:
Problem: Parents may struggle to decipher their child’s handwritten assignments, leading to arguments about how handwriting needs to be improved.
Tip: Emphasise the importance of clear and neat handwriting. A handwriting club will teach techniques for improving handwriting clarity and will provide practice opportunities to enhance legibility.
“Encourage your child to slow down and focus on legibility rather than speed.” – Dr. Beverly Moskowitz, Paediatric Occupational Therapist.
9. Pressure to Improve
Problem: Both parents and students may feel pressure to improve the handwriting, especially if it’s affecting academic performance or self-esteem.
Tip: Encourage your child to set realistic goals and track their progress.
“Focus on progress, not perfection, and celebrate small achievements along the way.” – Dr. Laura Benson, Occupational Therapist.
10. Lack of Motivation
Problem: Students may develop a dislike for writing tasks due to challenges with handwriting, leading to avoidance behaviours.
Tip: Make handwriting practice engaging and celebrate progress. A handwriting club will offer fun activities, rewards and a supportive environment to encourage practice.
“Motivation is a key factor in handwriting development. When students find handwriting practice enjoyable and see their progress, they are more likely to persist and improve.” – Dr. Yvonne Wigen, Occupational Therapist and Author (Wigen & Richards, 2019)
It is possible to address these top ten handwriting challenges with targeted tips. Students can develop excellent handwriting skills for academic and future success with support.
Imagine your child’s future with enhanced handwriting skills. Taking notes becomes easier and exams will be less daunting. Moving from frustration to victory is possible. A handwriting club with guidance from an expert will make this happen. Let’s start today! Find out more about our handwriting club for 11 to 16 year olds.
