Education & Classroom
Here are five fun and worksheet-free ways to practice handwriting skills over the summer :
1 . Letter formation with different mediums . Have your child practice writing letters in sand , salt , Play-Doh , shaving cream , finger paint , or even in bubbles during bathtime . These sensory-rich experiences activate more areas of the brain to help your child remember letter strokes better . It is also much more fun than tedious handwriting activities
2 . Drawing with sidewalk chalk . Sidewalk chalk is an inexpensive and fun way to get outside in the sun while addressing the motor skills and strength needed for handwriting . It isn ’ t even necessary for your child to practice writing with the sidewalk chalk . Coloring and drawing will also work the muscles of the hand , arm , and shoulder needed for controlled handwriting and mature grasp on writing utensils
3 . Play outside . Did you know that to achieve fine motor control you first need to develop strength in the core and shoulders ? This is referred to as proximal strength and is a necessary precursor to fine motor control . No need to have your child perform push-ups and situps to gain this strength . Instead , let him or her enjoy swinging on monkey bars , climbing trees , running , jumping , throwing , and swimming . These activities all build important muscles and are an essential part of your child ’ s summer !
4 . Arts and crafts . Painting , sculpting , coloring , knitting , or making friendship bracelets — all of these activities require fine and visual motor skills , following step-by-step directions , and attention to task . Accessing your child ’ s creative side is an added bonus !
5 . Think of fun activities that require just a bit of writing . Writing the letter “ a ” 10 times or doing worksheets during summer break is no fun . Your child can practice those same skills by writing a letter to Grandma , writing down the grocery list , leaving notes for Dad , or writing a list of his / her favorite TV shows or video games . There is no need for your child to complete pages and pages of work . Simply picking up a pencil and writing something on a regular basis will help your child retain handwriting skills while he / she is away from school
Your child works so hard during the school year to improve his / her handwriting skills . I am always so proud of how far my students are able to progress each year . These simple activities can help to maintain this progress and make for an easier transition back to school in the fall .
Megan Huggins , MOT , OTR / L , CTP is a school-based occupational therapist in Saint Louis , MO and a doctoral candidate at the University of Kansas Medical Center . Megan works with students in grades K-5 , the majority of whom are on the autism spectrum . Megan is also a Certified Trauma Professional , dedicated to better meeting the socio-emotional needs of students who have experienced trauma .