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Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

April 14, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

If you need some solid strategies to improve handwriting for your child, I have gathered up an assortment from my many years as a homeschooling mom. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

In an increasingly digital world, handwriting might seem like a relic of the past.

However, the ability to write legibly by hand remains a vital skill.

Good handwriting not only enhances academic and professional performance but also boosts self-esteem and encourages personal expression.

Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

We are diving into techniques and tools for handwriting improvement, offering a wide array of strategies, techniques, and resources to help individuals elevate their penmanship.

Improving handwriting is an achievable goal with dedication, practice, and the right approach.

By incorporating physical techniques, consistent practice, tools, and additional help when needed, all ages can enhance their handwriting and unlock its full potential.

Before we head out on our journey to improve handwriting for your child, it’s important to identify the specific challenges that reduce legibility and fluency.

IDENTIFYING COMMON HANDWRITING ISSUES

Next, look at some of these common writing obstacles.

  • Illegibility: Difficulty deciphering written words due to poor letter formation, inconsistent slant, or inadequate spacing.
  • Inconsistency: Variations in letter size, slant, and spacing, which lead to a disorganized and visually unappealing appearance.
  • Slow Writing Speed: Laborious and time-consuming writing that can impede note-taking, creative writing, and other tasks.
  • Hand Fatigue: Pain or discomfort in the hand, wrist, or arm during or after writing, often caused by incorrect grip or posture.
  • Poor Letter Formation: Incorrect or inconsistent formation of letters, leading to confusion and misinterpretation.

Now that we know what the most common causes for poor handwriting are we can focus on strategies.

STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE HANDWRITING

A multifaceted approach is the key to achieving lasting improvements in handwriting.

The following strategies include physical techniques and practice methods.

The physical aspects of writing, including grip, posture, and fine motor skills are crucial for improving handwriting.

1. GRIP AND POSTURE TECHNIQUES ARE IMPORTANT

  • Strengthen hand and finger muscles through fine motor play like scooping, pouring, kneading playdough and etc.
  • For older children exercises such as squeezing stress balls, playing an instrument, finger stretches, and wrist rotations are great for building fine motor muscles.
  • Focus on making sure your child has the proper grip on writing utensils.
  • The tripod grip is ideal and involves holding the pen or pencil between the thumb, index, and middle fingers, with the ring and little fingers resting comfortably on the writing surface. Tools like these pencil grips are great for teaching proper hold.
  • Encourage a relaxed grip, avoiding excessive pressure which can cause your child’s hand to cramp and fatigue.
  • Have your child use an upright posture, sitting with a straight back, feet flat on the floor, and shoulders relaxed, not slouching or leaning over the paper.
  • For good paper positioning, have them tilt the paper slightly to align with the natural writing angle.
  • Right-handed individuals typically angle the paper to the left, while left-handed individuals angle it to the right.
  • Keep the wrist straight and relaxed to allow for smooth and controlled movements for proper wrist alignment.

2. CONSISTENT PRACTICE ESSENTIAL

  • For the youngest learners, begin by tracing letters and words to memorize the correct stroke order and direction.
  • Utilize handwriting worksheets or digital resources that provide step-by-step instructions for forming letters.
  • Focus on Individual Letters, identify problematic letters, and dedicate focused practice sessions to mastering their formation.
  • As your child moves from print to cursive practice joining letters smoothly and consistently to develop cursive writing skills.
  • Consistent Spacing: Maintain uniform spacing between letters and words to enhance readability.
  • Use lined paper as a guide for letter size and baseline alignment, there are many types available from large preschool spaces to college ruled.
  • Ensure that all letters rest on the baseline for a neat and organized appearance, have your child check and correct their own writing as well.
  • Stick with short, frequent sessions: Dedicate 15-20 minutes each day to focused handwriting practice. Consistency is key to building muscle memory and improving fluency.

3. USE THE BEST HANDWRITING TOOLS

  • Ergonomic Pens and Pencils- Choose writing instruments that fit comfortably in their hand and promote a relaxed grip.
  • Pencil Grips-Consider using pencil grips to improve grip and reduce hand fatigue.
  • Different paper types- Experiment with different types of paper to find one that suits their writing style and preferences. Different textures, lined paper, grooved paper for writing practice.

4. EXPLORE HANDWRITING TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES

  • Handwriting Apps- Explore interactive apps that offer guided practice, feedback, and gamified learning experiences.
  • Digital Tablets and Stylus Pens- Practice handwriting on digital devices for a versatile and engaging experience.
Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Too, look at more homeschool writing tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

In some cases, handwriting difficulties may stem from underlying medical or developmental conditions.

In this case, you will want to consult with your doctor on getting a referral for:

  • Vision Assessment-Schedule a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any vision problems that might be affecting handwriting.
  • Occupational Therapy- Consult an occupational therapist if handwriting challenges are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other fine motor skill difficulties.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, writing

How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program

April 13, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Handwriting Without Tears homeschool program is a well-recognized and in-depth handwriting program designed to teach handwriting skills. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips.

The program is for up to elementary school ages.

And handwriting is a complex skill that requires fine motor control, visual perception, and cognitive understanding.

How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program

So, the methods used in Handwriting without Tears homeschool program help children to be successful from the beginning.

Handwriting Without Tears (HWOT) offers Pre-K through 6th grade instruction for beginning writers to those improving their cursive skills.

Today my focus is on My First School book which is perfect for Pre-K or Kindergarten.

But we have used almost every level available at one time or another throughout the years.

What I like most about the program is that it uses a multi-sensory approach.

HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS MY FIRST SCHOOL BOOK

For example, it incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to engage learners and reinforce letter formation.

It keeps your child’s attention better while teaching at the same time.

Handwriting without Tears homeschool program emphasizes simple, consistent language and letter shapes, making it easier for students to learn and remember.

It builds on itself and follows a similar format throughout all levels, so it is familiar even while it becomes more challenging as they advance levels.

For example, each level includes engaging, and developmentally appropriate instructional methods to help children to master handwriting as an automatic and comfortable skill.

  • Explicit instruction combined with guided practice to promote handwriting automaticity.
  • Research-backed curriculum with an intuitive and customizable design.
  • Developmentally appropriate sequence flows from Pre-K–6.
  • Seamlessly integrates with literacy curricula for effective handwriting instruction.
  • Hands-on tools build vocabulary and alphabet knowledge prior to writing. 
  • Multisensory activities engage all learners and develop fine motor skills.

My First School Book is a curriculum-based workbook that was designed to introduce and reinforce foundational handwriting skills in young learners.

It is primarily targeted to preschoolers and kindergarteners, focusing on pre-writing strokes, proper letter formation, and overall fine motor skill development.

The program utilizes a multisensory approach, incorporating verbal cues, visual guides, and kinesthetic activities to make learning engaging and effective.

PROS HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS

  • Multisensory Approach– The book uses a multisensory approach to learning, incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements. This caters to different learning styles and helps children recognize letter shapes and writing patterns more effectively.
  • Engaging Activities- The book is filled with activities that are developmentally appropriate and captivating for young learners. These include tracing, coloring, drawing, and connecting dots, all designed to reinforce letter shapes and writing patterns.
  • Clear and Simple Instructions-The instructions provided are written in a very straightforward and easy to follow manner, both for children and the adults guiding them.
  • Focuses on Fine Motor Skills- The activities are crafted to strengthen the fine motor skills necessary for handwriting. This includes exercises that promote hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and pencil control.
  • Structured Introduction to Letter Formation-The program introduces letter formation in a systematic and logical sequence, starting with simple strokes and gradually progressing to more complex letters. This structured approach helps children build confidence and mastery.
How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program

CONS HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS

  • Repetitive Activities- This is both a pro and a con, while the activities are generally engaging, some children might find the repetitive nature of certain exercises tedious, especially those who are quick learners or have prior exposure to handwriting. I have not seen this personally be an issue for us at all.
  • High Amount of Parental Help Needed: Although the instructions are clear, young children will likely require adult supervision and guidance to complete the activities correctly and get the most out of the program. If you are looking for a handwriting curriculum little ones can do on their own this might not work, at least for this age group.
  • Limited for Advanced Learners: The book is primarily designed for beginners and might not offer enough of a challenge for those children who already have strong handwriting skills or advanced fine motor development. But the easy solution for that is just to begin in the next book or further on in this one.

In addition to the book, I suggest adding these additional items (although the book alone is wonderful) to create a richer and more fun learning experience.

While these items are for letter recognition, they work very closely with learning to write, as a preschooler or kindergartener learns to confidently identify their letters and how they are formed they can translate that knowledge into confidence in writing.

  • Wood Pieces Capital Letters- These are so much fun and very high quality to help your child form all the capital letters in the alphabet with every shape they need included in the set.
  • Wet Dry Try App- Before a pencil even gets picked up you may want to encourage your child to familiarize themself with practicing writing letters with their fingers or a stylus on the app. Wonderful repetition as they draw the letter, erase over the same lines with a “wet sponge”, and then finally dry over the same lines.
  • HWOT Slate and Supplies- Sometimes something as simple as changing up your writing surface from paper to slate or dry erase really sparks the interest.

Too, look at more homeschool writing tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Finally, look at these levels.

HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS HOMESCHOOL LEVELS

  • My First School Book
  • Kickstart Kindergarten (PreK)
  • Letters and Numbers For Me
  • Building Writers
  • My Printing Book(Kindergarten)
  • Printing Power(1st)
  • Cursive Kickoff
  • Cursive Handwriting
  • Cursive Success
  • Can-Do Cursive
  • Cursive and Beyond

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hand writing, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, writing

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

April 12, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

To catch their interest, you want to keep elementary school writing topics interesting and relevant to your child’s life. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

Besides, writing is a fundamental skill that lays the groundwork for academic success and effective communication throughout life.

Too, elementary school writing topics help students to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a love for language.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Additionally, I’m giving you lots of great ideas for writing topics for your elementary aged child.

However, it would also be a lot of fun to help your child create a unique customized creative writing journal to put ideas in.

In the elementary grades, children begin to learn about- narrative, descriptive, and expository writing, with each serving its own purpose.

  • Narrative writing tells a story. It often includes characters, a plot, and a setting. The primary goal is to entertain or engage the reader.
  • Informative writing aims to educate or inform the reader about a specific topic. It relies on facts, statistics, and evidence to convey information.

Persuasive writing attempts to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. It often uses arguments, appeals, and evidence to sway the reader’s opinion.

First, look at narrative writing topics.

NARRATIVE WRITING TOPICS

Narrative writing allows students to tell stories, real or imagined. Moreover, it helps them develop their ability to structure a story, create characters, and use descriptive language from their point of view.

Personal Experiences

  • A time I was happy
  • My favorite party
  • A day I learned something new
  • A trip to the zoo
  •  My first day of school
  •  A time I helped someone
  •  My favorite family tradition

Imaginary Stories

  •  The mystery of the missing cookie
  •  If I had a pet dragon…
  •  A journey to a faraway land…
  •  The day the toys came to life
  •  A superhero adventure…
  •  A talking animal’s story
  •  A visit to a candy kingdom

Next, look at descriptive writing topics.

DESCRIPTIVE WRITING TOPICS

In addition, descriptive writing encourages students to use sensory details to paint a picture with words. Also, this helps them develop their vocabulary and observation skills.

Places

  •  My favorite place in my house
  •  A park on a sunny day
  •  A busy street in the city
  •  A quiet forest
  •  The beach at sunset
  •  My classroom
  •  A magical garden

Objects

  •  A piece of artwork
  •  My favorite toy
  •  A special gift
  •  A colorful flower
  •  A shiny rock..
  •  An old book
  • A delicious treat
Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

People

  •  My best friend
  •  A family member
  •  A hero I admire
  •  Someone I just met recently
  •  A character from a book
  •  A neighbor that I know well

Also, look at expository writing topics.

EXPOSITORY WRITING TOPICS

Expository writing focuses on explaining, informing, or describing a topic. For example, it helps students develop their research, organization, and analytical skills.

How-To

  •  How to make a sandwich
  •  How to plant a seed
  •  How to draw a picture
  •  How to build a tower with blocks
  •  How to build a tree fort
  •  How to bake cookies
  •  How to take care of a pet
  • How to play my favorite video game

Factual Reports

  •  My favorite animal
  •  The solar system
  •  Different types of weather
  •  Famous landmarks
  •  The life cycle of a butterfly
  •  How plants grow
  •  What I know about dinosaurs

Opinion Pieces

  • Fishing is better than hunting
  •  Why reading is important
  •  My favorite sport and why
  •  The best thing about summer
  •  My favorite food and why
  •  Why it’s important to be kind
  •  The best way to spend a weekend

Too, look at more homeschool writing tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Finally, look at how to make an elementary school creative writing journal.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WRITING TOPICS JOURNAL

You will need:

  • Composition book
  • Scrapbook paper
  • ribbon
  • Stickers
  • Glue
  • scissors
Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

First, lay your composition book on the “wrongside” of your chosen scrapbook paper.

Then trace around it with a pencil. Do this for each side. I like to leave the clean bound edge outside of the tracing area so it leaves a nice binding.

Unless your paper is the same on both sides, trace one side each time so that the pattern will be showing on the outside rather than cutting the same side out twice.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Next, repeat the same process with solid cardstock for each side.

Cut out all 4 pages and set to the side.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Next, cut out a length of ribbon twice as long as the height of the comp book.

Glue to the inside back cover so that when pulled through the pages at least an inch will still hang out the bottom.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Using a generous amount of glue, attach the solid cardstock to both sides of the inner covers, making sure it is pressed down well and covers the ribbon attached to the back.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Wipe away excess glue and allow it to lay open overnight or for several hours until the glue dries. You can use a quick drying glue stick but it may not hold as well as a good coat of school glue, alternatively use a thin layer of hot glue for a really quick dry.

Cover the outside of the journal with glue and press in your patterned paper to cover well. If needed, trim any edges off neatly.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Now use stickers or markers to add anything else you would like to add. A strip of solid cardstock glued across the middle gives you a clean canvas for adding a name or a title for the writing journal.

We found a bunch of words that were inspiring for writing all types of topics to decorate our journal with.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Finally, allow the glue to dry and the journal is ready to hold all your fabulous stories using what you learned about writing.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, elementary, homeschoolanguagearts, languagearts, writing, writing prompts

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

April 11, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When you are planning your child’s high school writing courses there are several things to consider. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

Whether your child is college bound, or they will go the trade school route, having a strong grasp on writing, grammar, etc. will help them in life.

These skills will translate into being able to write great emails and reports and communicate clearly and quickly.

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

Good writing will help your child excel with proposals and presentations, get thoughts out creatively and concisely, fill forms out correctly, and more.

The best writing program for your homeschooler is the one that meets their individual needs and helps them achieve their writing goals.

But there are things to consider when looking for a writing program.

4 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN HIGH SCHOOL WRITING COURSES

  1. Student’s Learning Style: Consider whether your student learns best through visual, auditory, or kinesthetic methods. Choose a curriculum or platform that matches their learning style.
  2. Budget: Some curricula and platforms can be expensive, while others are free or low-cost. Consider your budget when choosing a writing program.
  3. Time Commitment: Some programs require significant time commitment, while others are more flexible. Consider your student’s schedule and your own availability when choosing a program.
  4. Level of Parental Involvement: Some programs require a high level of parental involvement, while others are more self-directed. Consider your own comfort level and availability when choosing a program.

Now that you have considered these things it is time to assess your student’s needs.

IDENTIFY YOUR STUDENT’S NEEDS IN A WRITING COURSE

Identifying student’s strengths and weaknesses: Consider their learning style, interests, and goals. Where do they need additional support?

Set Goals: Use the assessment of strengths and weaknesses to determine specific writing skills that you want your student to improve- technical, creative, etc. and set both long- and short-term goals for your child.

Research various options: Explore various curricula, platforms, and additional options. Read reviews, compare features, and consider your assessment criteria.

Use free trials and placement tests: Use free trials or sample lessons when available before you commit to a company.

Create a Writing Schedule: Establish a regular writing schedule that fits into your homeschooling routine.

Offer constructive criticism and encouragement. Celebrate your child’s successes and help them overcome challenges.

Supplement with Additional Resources: Use writing prompts, online resources, and other materials to supplement your chosen curriculum or platform. I found something like a Word a Day calendar is fun for building vocabulary.

Seek Outside Support: Consider joining a homeschool writing group, finding a writing coach or tutor, or enrolling your student in a dual-enrollment program.

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

Some other sources that you can consider are local community colleges or coaches and tutors.

Writing Coaches and Tutors: Individualized instruction from a writing coach or tutor can be beneficial for students who need extra support or want to focus on specific writing skills.

Local Community Colleges: Many community colleges offer dual-enrollment programs that allow high school students to take college-level writing courses for credit.

Also, look at more homeschool writing curriculum and tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Now let me share with you some of the best high school writing courses I have found focusing on a variety of needs and in different formats.

7 High School Writing Courses

Now let me share with you some of the best high school writing courses I have found focusing on a variety of needs and in different formats.

Elegant Essay Writing Lessons : Building Blocks for Analytical Writing

Institute forExcellence in Writing (IEW): IEW offers a structured approach to writing, focusing on
grammar, style, and different writing genres. It utilizes a "teacher-led" model with both online and print materials,  live online writing classes, online tools like IEW Gradebook, and printed materials like workbooks and DVD’s.

WriteShop I Student Workbook, an incremental writing program

WriteShop provides a comprehensive curriculum with step-by-step lessons, writing prompts, and detailed teacher's guides. It covers various genres and emphasizes the writing process, giving them a solid foundation in descriptive, informative, and narrative writing.

Photo Credit: bravewriter.com

Brave Writer | Writing programs and online classes

This program is a more relaxed and creative approach to writing, emphasizing the joy of self-expression. It offers various courses and resources for different ages and writing styles. You have options for individuals or families with students of different ages.

Word Roots Beginning: Learning The Building Blocks of Better Spelling and Vocabulary

This company offers a range of writing workbooks and software programs that focus on grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills.

Photo Credit: apcentral.collegeboard.org

AP English Language and Composition

This course prepares students for the AP Language and Composition exam and focuses on analytical and
argumentative writing.

The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, 2nd Edition

Finally, your teens will write without dread! Have they almost given up on writing? Do they reach for the tissue box when you say, "Write an essay"? Do you worry they won't be ready for high school or college writing? Do they say they think of things to write but can't write them down? With THE POWER IN YOUR HANDS: WRITING NONFICTION IN HIGH SCHOOL, 2ND EDITION, they'll learn essay writing in a relaxed, nonthreatening atmosphere with a little humor thrown in.

Photo Credit: www.writeathome.com

WriteAtHome.com

Write at Home courses are very user-friendly and completely hands-off for the parents. They offer 8-week, semester, or year-long writing classes for students in high school.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, handwriting, high school, homeschool, homeschool highschool, homeschoolhighschool, language arts, languagearts, onlinewriting, writing

Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

April 9, 2025 | Leave a Comment
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Hands-on writing activities make an otherwise boring subject fun and interesting. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

Also, I have an on-the-go pencil pouch idea as well as many others.

We live in a technology-soaked world and it definitely has its place.

Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

But the benefits to fun and engaging hands-on writing activities are many and I am not only going to share the whys but some fun how tos as well.

How much fun is it to get a handwritten letter or sign your name in cursive for the first time?

We want to develop these skills, so your child has the option later.

Our on the go pencil pouch that we are going to put together today is a great way to not only pass the time on short or long trips but encourage your child to practice their writing skills.

These can also be brought into restaurants, doctors, offices, and more to pass the time while you wait.

HANDWRITING TOOLS

Next, look at more handwriting tools.

10 Writing Tools For Kids

Using the right tools when teaching handwriting or composition is important. Add some of these to your writing day.

Slant Board for Writing Adjustable Tilted Writing Board Sloped Surface to Improve Handwriting Legibility

Metal clip and portable design: equipped with metal clips to fix book paper, convenient for writing and painting; The writing board surface and support frame can be separated, making it easy to carry and allowing you to learn or create anytime, anywhere.

Micron Fineliner Pens - Archival Black Ink Pens - Pens for Writing, Drawing, or Journaling

Precise archival pens create fade resistant, waterproof, bleed free marks for drawing, artwork, journaling, and more

LEGO Stationery Pen Pal - LEGO Black Gel Pen and Classic Minifgure

Some pens are more comfortable to hold and write with than others. This can make a big difference for reluctant writers who may be more likely to give up if their pen is uncomfortable.

One Page A Day Handwriting Practice Paper for Kids

Your child or student will love to practice and learn their English printed letters and numbers on this lined and traceable manuscript paper made for basic language, printing, teaching, and learning. Created for grades one, two, and three, manuscript writing, they’re perfect for the classroom or home use and simplify handwriting, teaching, and learning through a visual format and self-correction. Put your school-age child on the path to consistent and quick development of standard printing with daily participation and education in handwriting exercises. You’ll likely see fast improvement in just a few weeks. This method works! In no time at all, your child will move from beginner’s status to improving to excellence.

Graph Paper Notebook 1 Inch Squares:

Occupational therapists use it for promoting spatial use, line use, helping children develop consistent letter size, and slowing down.

Special Supplies Egg Pen-Pencil Grips for Kids and Adults Colorful

Grips can help to reduce stress and anxiety related to writing because they can make writing more comfortable and easier,which can lead to a more positive experience.

Pencil Holder Grip Posture Correction Training Writing Aid.

Ergonomic Design: Three-finger grip for correcting faulty pen grip.

Pen or Pencil Weights | Handwriting Aid for Children, Elderly, or Special Needs. Assists with Penmanship Issues Due to Autism, Tremors, Grip Strength or Fine Motor Skill Disability

Fix Handwriting Problems: Adding 1.5oz weights to your pen or pencil can assist with various handwriting issues. The weighted pencil can help control its direction and stabilize your handwriting.

LCD Writing Tablet with Stylus

A simple LCD Tablet is erasable and makes a great on the go practice tool while driving in the car, waiting at the doctor, or for dinner.

Desk Chalkboard Wood Sign Chalkboard Double-Sided Chalkboard with Wooden Base

I always keep a personal chalkboard for morning time, travel, and random practice times.

BENEFITS OF HANDS-ON WRITING ACTIVITIES

Improved fine motor skills- Writing by hand requires the use of small muscles in the hands and fingers, which helps to develop fine motor skills. These skills are important for many everyday tasks, such as buttoning clothes, tying shoes, and using tools.

Enhanced cognitive skills-Writing by hand helps to improve cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. This is because writing by hand requires the brain to process information in a different way than typing.

Increased creativity-Writing by hand can help to increase creativity,  it allows for more fluidity and expression than typing.

Reduced stress-Writing by hand can help to reduce stress because the act of writing is calming, meditative, and a tactile experience.

Improved focus- It can help to improve focus because it requires the brain to focus on the task at hand.

Also, look at more homeschool writing curriculum and tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges
Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

10 EXCITING HANDS-ON WRITING ACTIVITIES

  1. Alphabet Letter Letter Formation cards are a great way to practice writing and letter recognition before they even touch a pencil.
  2. I think these Editable Name Coloring Pages | Student Names Activity | Printable Sheets are a fantastic way to develop fine motor skills in a unique way, and who doesn’t love to see their name featured?
  3. Start small with the Rainbow Pencil Control Exercises that help children develop writing legibility.
  4. Ancient Japan for Kids: Fun and Simple Handwriting Activity- Write out of the “norm”, rather than practicing your basic alphabet shake things up by having your child take their time to practice Japanese characters. This will still give them fine motor practice and will require even more concentration and patience while writing the more difficult characters by giving a fun twist.
  5. Tools like this Dashed Handwriting Lines Practice Roller Stamp can make handwriting fun and put kids in the driver’s seat by letting them create their own writing guidelines.
  6. Put together this simple Rainbow Salt Writing Tray before they even pick up a pencil to develop letter recognition and motor skills.
  7. While The Best Part of Me was designed for a classroom setting, it would lend itself wonderfully to a homeschool writing project as well.
  8. Young children working on prewriting skills will use the messy sticky Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing along with 11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers.
  9. Colorful and repetitive Rainbow Words are solid practice for fine motor skills but also spelling practice as well.
  10. Instead of popping a video up on the screen when traveling, put together an on the go writing kit for extra practice. Continue reading to find out what I would put in it and how to maximize its effectiveness.

ON THE GO WRITING POUCH

You will need:

  • Writing pouch
  • Pencils
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Fun pens
  • Erasers
  • Small notepad
  • Post it notes
  • 3×5 cards
Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

First, you need a fun writing pouch, I was able to find everything I needed at Dollar Tree to put it all together.

Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

Include a small lined notebook, be sure that it fits inside.

Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

Add pencils, fun colorful or scented pens, erasers, and of course a pencil sharpener.

Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch

Now beyond those basics for a young child learning to write things like basic cvc words you can write them neatly on 3×5 cards for them to copy.

To increase your child’s familiarity with common words, develop vocabulary, and encourage handwriting practice, change up the words on these cards with every trip.

For older children, you can draw a picture at the top without writing the word so that they can recall it on their own and write it out.

A simple doctor visit? Pencil in doctor and nurse to help familiarize them with the words in writing. Headed to see Mount Rushmore? President, mountain, and South Dakota would be perfect. Disney? Mickey and pals of course.

Tuck your filled pencil pouch into the glove compartment or the back of the seat pocket so that it is ready to go.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hand writing, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, handwriting, homeschool, teachingwriting, writing

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