{"id":5645,"date":"2025-01-21T15:44:28","date_gmt":"2025-01-21T14:44:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/arbos-en\/how-to-teach-children-the-value-of-handwriting\/"},"modified":"2025-01-22T13:20:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-22T12:20:58","slug":"how-to-teach-children-the-value-of-handwriting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/education-and-creativity\/how-to-teach-children-the-value-of-handwriting\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Teach Children the Value of Handwriting"},"content":{"rendered":"

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When was the last time you wrote something by hand? Between smartphones, tablets, and computers, we often jot down shopping lists on our phones<\/strong> or take notes on a laptop during meetings. This digital transformation isn\u2019t only affecting us adults\u2014it\u2019s also having a significant impact on children, with some surprising and unintended consequences. <\/p>\n

In recent years, numerous studies have shown that handwriting, especially cursive, is becoming a challenging skill for many children<\/strong>. The prevalence of technology has led to significant changes in learning habits. According to an article in Repubblica<\/a>, many children struggle with handwriting, finding cursive particularly difficult due to the greater coordination and fluidity it demands<\/strong>. Other studies, reported by Focus<\/a>, suggest that handwriting instruction is in decline<\/strong>, with children gradually losing the ability to express themselves in cursive. Even Italy\u2019s Accademia della Crusca<\/a> has voiced concern, highlighting the cultural importance of handwriting. <\/p>\n

Reading about these trends brings to mind the Latin phrase “Nulla dies sine linea<\/strong>“\u2014attributed to Pliny the Elder\u2014meaning “not a day without a line.” In other words, each day should involve writing or creating something<\/strong>. This motto underscores the importance of consistent practice, particularly for children developing their handwriting skills. Handwriting is not just a technical skill but also an art, a way to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Daily practice is crucial for fostering children\u2019s cognitive and creative development. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/bambini-e-scrittura-a-mano.jpg” title_text=”children and handwriting” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/bambini-e-scrittura.jpg” title_text=”children and writing” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

Why Handwriting Matters<\/h2>\n

Handwriting is essential<\/strong> to a child\u2019s development\u2014not only academically but also cognitively and physically<\/strong>. It engages multiple skills, including hand-eye coordination<\/strong>, concentration<\/strong>, memory<\/strong>, and the ability to articulate thoughts<\/strong>. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology<\/a> found that handwriting activates more brain cells than typing, enhancing learning capabilities. Encouraging children to write by hand positively impacts their overall development, improving school performance as well as cognitive and motor skills. <\/p>\n

Handwriting is also a powerful form of personal expression<\/strong>. Each child\u2019s handwriting is unique, reflecting their personality<\/strong>. Writing by hand can foster an emotional connection to the text<\/strong>, whether it\u2019s a story, a diary entry, or simple notes. It\u2019s a deliberate, mindful activity<\/strong> that develops the ability to reflect and organize thoughts. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/arbos-quaderni-copybook-italia-60.jpg” title_text=”arbos-quaderni-copybook-italia-60″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti-scaled.webp” title_text=”arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_free_form=”selector img {|| aspect-ratio: 1 \/ 1;|| object-fit: cover;||}” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

The Importance of Cursive Writing<\/h2>\n

Cursive writing holds a special role in children\u2019s writing development. Writing in cursive requires fluid<\/strong>, continuous motion<\/strong>, which helps develop fine motor skills<\/strong> and improves hand coordination<\/strong> and dexterity. <\/p>\n

Cursive also aids children in better understanding word structure and pronunciation<\/strong>. Unlike block letters, cursive fosters continuity and connection between letters, making reading and writing more intuitive. It can also enhance writing speed and note-taking abilities\u2014skills that become essential in school and beyond. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti4.jpg” title_text=”arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

Research by Professor Vertecchi<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/scrivere-a-mano-bambini.jpg” title_text=”Little caucasian boy writing with a pencil in notebook and thinking.” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

Professor Benedetto Vertecchi<\/strong>, a leading expert in education, conducted a study that underscores the importance of handwriting<\/a> for children\u2019s cognitive development. The research involved 380 students in grades 3\u20135 from two Roman primary schools, who spent 15 minutes daily (Monday through Friday) writing short handwritten texts of 4, 5, and 6 lines. <\/p>\n

The analysis revealed that children were increasingly struggling with handwriting, particularly cursive. Many students had not developed their own cursive style, with their handwriting often consisting of disconnected block letters<\/strong>. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

Vertecchi emphasized that abandoning handwriting could negatively impact cognitive development, as it is closely tied to memory and the ability to organize ideas. His research shows that handwriting not only consolidates knowledge but also fosters creative expression<\/strong> and independent thinking<\/strong>. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

The best Arbos notebooks for Kids<\/h2>\n

Having a special notebook<\/strong> can make a big difference in motivating children to write and improve their penmanship. Arbos notebooks, crafted from sustainable and recycled materials, are the perfect choice for teaching children the value of handwriting and sustainability<\/strong>. <\/p>\n

Here are some of our top picks for kids:<\/p>\n

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Pups Notebooks<\/a><\/strong>:
Made from colorful straw paper, featuring adorable animal designs like rabbits and raccoons\u2014perfect for brightening up school days, even during exams.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/notes-a-spirale-comics-conf-10-pezzi.jpg” title_text=”notes-a-spirale-comics-conf-10-pezzi” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n

Comics Spiral Notes<\/a><\/strong>:
Fun notebooks where the elastic closure is part of the cover\u2019s playful design, featuring characters like Milo and his dog, Poldo.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti-3.jpg” title_text=”arbos-progetto-quaderni-aperti-3″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n

Quaderni Aperti<\/a><\/strong>:
School notebooks that celebrate decades of history. Each notebook includes a full-color insert featuring reproductions of writings and drawings by children from the 1960s, \u201970s, \u201980s, and \u201990s. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

The Role of Phones, Computers, and Tablets<\/h2>\n

There\u2019s no denying that smartphones, computers, and tablets<\/strong> have transformed how children learn and interact with writing. While these tools make accessing information easier and faster, they\u2019ve also reduced the use of handwriting. Typing has become the primary method of communication in school and daily life, leaving less time for practicing handwriting. <\/p>\n

Excessive use of digital devices during childhood can slow the development of fine motor skills<\/strong>, which are essential for handwriting. Typing lacks the complexity of movements required by handwriting, such as pressure control and precise strokes. <\/p>\n

Moreover, handwriting stimulates more brain activity<\/strong> than typing, engaging motor and sensory processes that enhance memory and understanding.<\/p>\n

While technology is an integral part of modern life, finding a balance is key. Children should learn to use digital tools effectively while also having opportunities to develop handwriting skills<\/strong>. Teaching children the value of writing by hand\u2014not just as a school skill but as a form of expression and personal reflection\u2014is essential for their overall growth. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/scrivere-3.jpg” title_text=”writing” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/scrittura-a-mano.jpg” title_text=”Writing letter to a friend. Selective focus and shallow depth of field. ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_free_form=”selector img {|| aspect-ratio: 1 \/ 1;|| object-fit: cover;||}” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n

Teaching children the value of handwriting is more important than ever. Choosing the right tools, like Arbos notebooks<\/a>, can make all the difference in encouraging kids to write and making the process enjoyable and rewarding. With its commitment to sustainability and quality materials, Arbos offers products that inspire children not only to master cursive but also to love writing and care for the planet. <\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

When was the last time you wrote something by hand? Between smartphones, tablets, and computers, we often jot down shopping lists on our phones or take notes on a laptop during meetings. This digital transformation isn\u2019t only affecting us adults\u2014it\u2019s also having a significant impact on children, with some surprising and unintended consequences. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that handwriting, especially cursive, is becoming a challenging skill for many children. The prevalence of technology has led to significant changes in learning habits. According to an article in Repubblica, many children struggle with handwriting, finding cursive particularly difficult due to the greater coordination and fluidity it demands. Other studies, reported by Focus, suggest that handwriting instruction is in decline, with children gradually losing the ability to express themselves in cursive. Even Italy\u2019s Accademia della Crusca has voiced concern, highlighting the cultural importance of handwriting. Reading about these trends brings to mind the Latin phrase “Nulla dies sine linea”\u2014attributed to Pliny the Elder\u2014meaning “not a day without a line.” In other words, each day should involve writing or creating something. This motto underscores the importance of consistent practice, particularly for children developing their handwriting skills. Handwriting is not just a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5313,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[238],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5645","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-education-and-creativity"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5645","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5645"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5645\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5647,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5645\/revisions\/5647"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5313"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5645"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5645"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.arbos.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5645"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}