Handwriting remains the primary tool of communication for students in the classroom. When a student has good handwriting skills, they can write with speed and ease, finish school work quickly, and teachers can actually read what they write. Additionally, various research studies have shown the impact of handwriting on the developing brain, including enhanced neural activity and impact on the areas of the brain related to literacy. Students without consistent exposure to handwriting are more likely to struggle in all academic areas.
Many teachers will say that they are working on handwriting, but it is important to know that working on handwriting and instruction in handwriting are two very different things. Many teachers report not being equipped to teach handwriting. They also lack the time with the increase in classroom and academic demands they are now responsible for.
Here at Building Skills Occupational Therapy, we are working to meet this gap in instruction. We use developmentally researched activities and programs, with our Occupational Therapy background to improve hand skills for classroom activities, such as holding a pencil or cutting with scissors. Our real specialty though, is short term interventions to address those skills needed for handwriting. We add in the award-winning Handwriting Without Tears® curriculum (Pre-k and up to school aged) and BOOM! Our students are better prepared for school and have some fun along the way!
Contact details and more information about Building Skills Occupational Therapy: Address 4370 S. Tamiami Trl., Suite 245 Sarasota FL 34321
Phone: 941-277-9901. E-mail: rachel@buildingskillsot.com
Owner, Occupational Therapist: Rachel Frank MS, OTR/L Current school based Occupational Therapist with over 20 years experience.
Certified in the Handwriting without Tears® Curriculum.
