With a language such as English with its difficult spelling system, early handwriting practice and writing down messages and thoughts helps kids break the code. 2.

If you or your child has ADHD and less-than-perfect penmanship, you may have wondered if there's a connection. It's true. Messy handwriting is linked to ADHD.

So, that helped a lot.” Better writers, better students Teacher Grace O’Connor says the extra handwriting practice helped the students gain confidence and perform better in class.

This includes models, guided practice on how to form letters and time to practice independently. As little as 10 to 15 minutes a day three to five times a week can produce measurable gains, he said.

Typing is certainly a lot more efficient, but discarding handwriting entirely might not be such a great idea. Picking up a pencil and a pad of paper to write out your ideas could aid your thought ...

Researchers are learning that handwriting engages the brain in ways typing can't match, raising questions about the costs of ditching this age-old practice, especially for kids.