The Write Way! Links Between Handwriting and Deeper Learning

With technology becoming more ingrained in our everyday lives, the act of writing by hand might seem like a fading skill. However, past research has continuously shown that putting pen to paper has far-reaching benefits, especially for young minds!

In this blog, we’ll explore the various connections between handwriting and memory and how writing by hand can impact your child’s learning.

The Magic of Handwriting (for the Brain)

Researchers have found that the act of physically writing by hand engages different parts of the brain compared to typing on a keyboard. According to a study published in the Frontiers in Psychology journal (Mueller & Oppenheimer, 2014), students who took handwritten notes during lectures demonstrated better conceptual understanding and retention compared to those who typed their notes. 

Unlike typing, which often involves repetitive finger movements, handwriting requires a more intricate coordination between the hand and the brain. The process of forming letters, words, and sentences manually stimulates neural pathways associated with spatial awareness, motor skills, and memory. It also forces the brain to process the information at a slower pace, allowing for better comprehension and analysis. 

In summary, writing by hand requires the writer to actively think about the content, rephrase it in their own words, and physically transcribe it onto paper. This multi-sensory experience enhances the encoding of information, creating stronger connections in the brain. 

(Photo by Katerina Holmes)

Memory Traces – Leaving a Lasting Memory 

Memory traces, also known as engrams, are the physical or chemical changes in the brain that occur when new information is learned. The strength and distinctiveness of these memory traces play a crucial role in later recall and understanding.

The physical act of holding a pen or pencil, feeling the texture of the paper, and the intricate motor movements required to form letters and words engage multiple senses, creating a richer and more complex set of memory traces in the brain.

With the enhanced strength and distinctiveness of these memory traces, recall and understanding of the learned material improves. When individuals later attempt to retrieve the information, the more robust memory traces formed through handwriting lead to quicker and more accurate recall when compared to typing.

Putting it to Good Use: Tips for Handwriting Success

Now that we understand how and why handwriting helps with memory, let’s explore some practical tips to encourage and optimize handwriting skills for your children.

  1. Incorporate Writing in Daily Activities: Encourage your child to write shopping lists, thank-you notes, or short stories. Making writing a part of everyday life reinforces its importance.
  2. Start Early: Introducing writing tools like crayons and markers to your toddlers can help develop the basic motor skills required for handwriting. 
  3. Provide the Right Tools: Invest in good quality pencils and paper. The tactile experience of different textures can further enhance the benefits of handwriting. 
  4. Be Patient and Positive: Learning to write can be challenging, especially for children. Be patient and offer positive reinforcement to encourage your child. Celebrate the small achievements to boost their confidence as well!

We advocate for the benefits of handwriting, but it’s essential to recognize the role of technology in modern education as well. Typing skills are crucial for the digital age, and striking a balance between typing and handwriting is key. Consider integrating both practices into your child’s learning routine to harness the unique advantages each skill brings to the table.

(Photo by Olia Danilevich)

Since 1994, Century Private School has offered a safe, pleasant, and nurturing environment for students from Montessori preschool to high school. We are dedicated to providing first-class education to embrace the vision of our students achieving excellence through their experience at Century Private School.

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For three decades, Century Private School has been a cornerstone of quality education, inspiring students from Montessori preschool through high school. Located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, the school opened its doors in 1994 with a mission to provide a holistic, well-rounded education that goes beyond academics. Over the past 30 years, our approach to education has consistently emphasized not only academic excellence but also personal growth, creativity, and a strong sense of community. A Legacy Built on Core Pillars At the heart of Century’s philosophy are three core pillars: Character Education, Leadership, and Community Service. These values are integrated into every aspect of school life, guiding students not only in their academic endeavors but in their personal and social development as well. By nurturing responsible and compassionate leaders, Century prepares its students to excel both within and beyond the classroom. Educational Excellence Century’s enriched curriculum is a blend of the Montessori approach and the Ontario Ministry of Education’s guidelines. It fosters independent, creative thinkers who are equipped with critical thinking skills and global perspectives. The curriculum includes unique programs such as ESL support, STEAM education, and specialized instruction in music, visual arts, and physical education. This balance ensures that students receive a dynamic, personalized education that caters to their strengths and interests. Achievements to Celebrate Over the years, Century has consistently demonstrated academic excellence. Whether it’sstudents excelling in contests like the Waterloo Mathematics Contest or earning prestigious scholarships, the school’s commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity is evident in every achievement. Beyond academics, students are encouraged to engage with their communities, making meaningful contributions through various service initiatives. A Community of Growth Century Private School’s commitment to small class sizes and individualized learning pathways allows each student to receive the support they need to thrive. With dedicated specialist teachers and a strong focus on personal growth, students are given the opportunity to develop academically, socially, and emotionally in a nurturing environment. Looking to the Future As Century Private School celebrates its 30th anniversary, it looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence. The school remains steadfast in its mission to provide an education that not only prepares students for academic success but also instills in them the values and skills needed to become compassionate leaders in an ever-changing world.   For families seeking a supportive, forward-thinking school, Century Private School stands as a beacon of educational innovation and community engagement.