Ensure your students are holding their pencils correctly
Teaching children the proper way to hold a pencil is the very first step in teaching them to write. The ideal grip is the tripod grip, where the pencil is held between the thumb, index, and middle fingers. This grip offers stability and control, making writing more manageable and more comfortable for your students. Demonstrate to your students the correct way to hold a pencil with this grip and encourage them to try writing their name; keep your eye on the way they hold their pencil as the lesson progresses, correcting them when needed.
Encourage your students to play with patterns
It's not all about the alphabet! Practising basic patterns such as loops, zigzags, and curves can also help your students with their dexterity and control when it comes to handling a pencil. Plus, it’s fun and it will be a welcome break from copying out letters and words.
Use guides to help your students form letters correctly
Before you can even think about teaching your children how to piece words together, the first step is mastering copying out the 26 letters of the alphabet. This can seem like quite a daunting task, but there are plenty of resources available to help, which are free and downloadable online that you can print off to help. Tracing paper is also a great way to start your students off practising letters. Repetition of letter formations will eventually make them second nature for your class.
Always have lined paper on hand
Lined paper is an essential tool for students learning how to write. It gives them a space to stay within, which, over time, will encourage them to write in straight, evenly-spaced lines. Many lined papers are available that include helpful midlines to assist with letter height and formation, which can be especially helpful for young children.
Make it fun!
The best way to get your students to practise their handwriting is to make the activity fun. Encourage them to write letters to their friends and families, make posters, start a journal, and draw and label the pictures.
Putting out colourful felt tips, crayons, and pencils is also a great way to encourage them to engage and turn a lesson into a fun experience.
By incorporating these tips into your lessons, you can help your pupils improve their handwriting and have fun at the same time. With practice and patience, their handwriting will improve, which will boost their confidence and help them communicate better overall!
If you'd like any help or advice on how to help your children progress in the classroom, look no further! At EPSL, we provide a wide range of school exercise books, personalised exercise books, and supplementary reading materials so that your students have everything they need to stay motivated, productive, and positive when practising their handwriting. Got any questions? Our friendly team is always available on 01254 686 500 to help!
