In an age when artificial intelligence and technology continue to create possibilities and opportunities we could have never imagined, it is tempting to assume handwriting is less relevant than it was in the 1980s and 1990s. 

Research confirms, however, that this is far from true. Students who can write clearly and legibly are more equipped to record their thoughts and ideas.* 

When handwriting is automatic, the cognitive demands are lowered, and students can invest that mental energy into thinking about the many other complex demands of writing; constructing grammatically correct sentences, communicating information clearly and engaging the audience. 

Handwriting is a complex skill that develops over time. For students to successfully handwrite, they need to combine fine motor skills, language, memory and concentration. They also need to practise and follow instructions. 

Teachers begin teaching handwriting in the early years by providing opportunities to draw, scribble and ‘write’. They also invite students to develop their hand strength by playing with playdough, threading and building blocks. 

In early primary school, students are very explicitly taught correct letter formation and how to hold a pencil. For some students, developing a correct pencil grip is one of the most challenging aspects of handwriting, and in some instances, it may be appropriate for them to work with an occupational therapist. At the same time, technology, including voice-to-text, should be embraced when it removes a barrier for students who may have a specific physical disability or learning difficulty. 

On occasions, students may reach the upper years of primary school and their handwriting skills are still yet to be fully developed. They may be fully aware and self-conscious about the deficit in their handwriting skills, or they may not worry at all and assume that they won’t need to handwrite in secondary school. 

In either case, it is vital that the skill deficit is recognised and addressed by teachers, working in partnership with families. It is never ‘too late’ to have a handwriting conversation, and handwriting is an important priority for Junior School in 2025. 

More information about the importance of handwriting, links to research about this topic, and helpful information sheets, can be found here.

*Source: Raising Children Network: Handwriting Skills for Children

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