Why Handwriting Still Matters

A Lifeline for Neurodiverse Learners in the Digital Age

Leslie Catlett, MS, OTR/L, Photo credit: Aaron Taylor Photography

By Leslie Catlett MS, OTR/L, The Penmanship Lab, LLC

With touchscreens, keyboards, and voice commands everywhere, it is easy to think that handwriting is a thing of the past. For neurodiverse learners, however, handwriting is more than putting pen to paper; it is an essential skill that still matters. While technology is an incredible tool, handwriting is here to stay. It plays a vital role in helping children grow cognitively, emotionally, and academically.

Handwriting engages the brain in ways that typing just can not. Research shows that physically writing letters activates parts of the brain- linked to learning and memory. It is not just about putting words on paper- it is about the tactile experience of forming letters. Writing by hand strengthens fine motor skills, supports brain development, aids in self-regulation, and improves coordination, all of which promote overall growth.

For neurodiverse learners, those problems or difficulties may be more significant in areas such as motor planning, executive function, and sensory issues; the benefits of handwriting are even more important. It can improve focus, support self-regulation, and foster coordination- key factors that contribute to their development and learning.

Why Handwriting Is Important for Neurodiverse Learners

1. Improved Memory and Comprehension

Writing by hand improves retention and understanding compared to typing. This allows the brain to process and organize information in a way that neurodiverse students can understand complex ideas and retain them longer

2. Supports Emotional Regulation

Handwriting can be a soothing activity; it gives structure and keeps anxiety or sensory overload at bay. Journaling, for example, allows freedom of self-expression that helps neurodiverse learners process and build resilience from their emotions.

3. Fine Motor and Visual-Motor Integration Skills

Handwriting enhances hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and motor control- all skills needed for academic performance and everyday tasks such as tying shoes, using utensils, and navigating technology.

4. Accommodates Learning Styles

Handwriting practice can be tailored to meet the strengths and needs of neurodiverse learners. Many occupational therapists incorporate sensory strategies, adaptive tools, and multisensory techniques to make writing fun and accessible.

Handwriting in the Digital Age

The rise of technology does not mean we should leave handwriting behind; instead, we should find a balance. For neurodiverse learners, this may be supported through the use of digital tools like voice-to-text software or typing longer assignments, as needed. Handwriting remains a foundational skill that bridges the gap between thinking and producing.

Practical Tips to Make Handwriting Meaningful

• Make It Fun: Use playful activities such as drawing, coloring, or making lists to develop fine motor skills, hand strength, coordination, and control.

• Adaptive Equipment: Consider using a pencil grip, slant board, adaptive paper, or weighted pencil grip to facilitate proper positioning of the hands and enhance efficiency and comfort. [You can find many of these on the Resources page!]

• Break It Down: Start with short, manageable tasks and gradually increase the complexity.

• Emphasize Quality, Not Speed: Try your best and focus on proper formation rather than beating the clock.

• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge improvement, no matter how small, to inspire confidence and further motivate continued progress.

Handwriting is more than just forming letters; it is about helping your child connect, build confidence, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. As an occupational therapist and a fellow parent, I know how important it is to meet kids where they are. By integrating handwriting with modern tools, we can foster their strengths and help them succeed in today's technology-based world while continuing to preserve the timeless value of handwriting.

References:

1. James, K. H., & Engelhardt, L. (2012). The effects of handwriting experience on functional brain development in pre-literate children. Trends in Neuroscience and Education, 1(1), 32-42. 

2. Longcamp, M., Anton, J. L., Roth, M., & Velay, J. L. (2003). Visual presentation of single letters activates a premotor area involved in writing. NeuroImage, 19(4), 1492-1500. 

3. James, K. H., & Gauthier, I. (2006). Letter processing automatically recruits a sensory-motor brain network. Neuropsychologia, 44(14), 2937-2949.