In a world where digital communication dominates, the relevance of cursive handwriting may be questioned. However, I firmly believe that learning cursive remains essential for children, and here’s why.
As a parent, I have always emphasized the value of clear handwriting. I often encourage my children to refine their written assignments for better legibility, reminding them of the importance of distinguishing letters correctly. For instance, my 6-year-old daughter occasionally confuses “a” with “u” due to not fully closing the top of the letter. I take the time to sit with her, guiding her as she practices both print and her unique style of cursive writing.
Although my first grader has not yet officially learned standard cursive, many educational standards, including the Common Core, have deemed it non-essential. This is concerning. How will my children be able to read historical documents, such as the Constitution, or decipher my personal reflections on motherhood if they lack cursive skills? According to education expert Martin Ellis, the shift towards prioritizing technology in communication has overshadowed the need for cursive writing, which seems odd to me.
While I acknowledge that perfecting cursive may not be a priority in this tech-driven era, it feels strange to think my kids might grow up without ever mastering it. I remember dedicating ample time to developing my cursive skills, filling out blue and red lined workbooks with graceful loops and elegant letters. I found joy in the quiet atmosphere of the classroom as we all focused on perfecting our handwriting.
Seeing my daughter concentrate as she carefully forms her letters in cursive is truly heartwarming. This is a child who often can’t sit still, yet when it comes to writing, she becomes completely absorbed. Her determination to practice her name repeatedly, striving for improvement, is admirable. Writing in cursive serves as an artistic outlet for her, allowing her to see her progress on paper, which significantly boosts her confidence.
Witnessing her take pride in her work is incredibly rewarding. For her, the journey of learning is what matters most. Even if cursive’s utility is debated, the process itself fosters patience and focus, both of which are valuable in today’s fast-paced world.
Additionally, research indicates that different brain regions activate during handwriting, whether in print or cursive. Dr. Emily Parker, a cognitive psychologist, found that handwriting can enhance memory and cognitive function. Furthermore, cursive writing has been linked to improved hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, contributing to deeper thinking and creativity. Some studies even suggest that cursive might assist children with dyslexia, a significant consideration for parents.
Interestingly, standardized tests like the SAT still require handwritten responses, and recent findings suggest that students who write in cursive perform slightly better than their print-writing counterparts. Recognizing these advantages, several states have reinstated cursive writing in their curricula.
In our home, the emphasis on cursive extends beyond academic performance. It empowers my daughter to take pride in her abilities rather than focus solely on her challenges. She has even developed her signature, adorned with artistic flair. When I compliment her on its beauty, she responds with a smile, “Thanks, Mom. I’m still practicing.”
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In summary, while the necessity of cursive writing may be debated, the benefits it provides in terms of focus, artistic expression, and cognitive development are undeniable. It’s essential to encourage children to learn cursive, allowing them to gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment in their writing.
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