As a parent, I take neat handwriting seriously. I often encourage my children to revise their written assignments to enhance clarity and uniformity across the page. When my 7-year-old writes an “a” that resembles a “u,” I gently nudge her to remember to close the top properly. I sit beside her as she practices letters, both in print and in her own whimsical version of cursive.
Although she is in second grade, standard cursive writing hasn’t been a formal part of her education—largely due to the Common Core Standards, which have removed cursive from the required curriculum. While modern educators argue that cursive isn’t necessary, I can’t help but wonder: how will my children appreciate historical documents like the Constitution? More importantly, how will they decipher my personal journals filled with reflections on life and motherhood once I’m gone?
In a discussion with Education Today, Mark Thompson, a prominent figure in educational policy, stated, “We recognize that technology is the primary mode of communication today. Thus, teaching students how to use technology effectively is paramount.” I understand the rationale; however, it feels odd to think my children might grow up without knowing how to write in cursive.
I fondly recall spending hours perfecting my cursive, filling those lined workbooks with elegant loops and flowing letters. While many classmates dreaded handwriting practice, I relished the tranquility it brought. I enjoyed watching the transformation of the word “dog” as I wrote it repeatedly, reveling in how neat it looked after several attempts.
Observing my daughter, as she mirrors my careful example to write her name in cursive, I’m amazed by her focus and determination. This is the same child who struggles to sit still for more than two minutes and is perpetually animated. Yet, at the kitchen table, with pencil in hand and a furrowed brow, she is entirely absorbed in her writing.
What’s even more remarkable is her commitment to improvement. She practices her name tirelessly, aiming for her own version of perfection before moving on to other words. She doesn’t get frustrated, nor does she compare her cursive to mine. For her, writing in cursive is a captivating form of self-expression. Each stroke on the page reveals her growth, significantly boosting her self-esteem.
Seeing my daughter, who often finds homework challenging, take pride in her efforts is a joy. For her, the process of learning is what truly counts. Even if learning cursive were the only benefit, the value of that process outweighs the debate on its practical utility. In our fast-paced world, it’s essential for children to have the opportunity to slow down and immerse themselves in a rewarding task.
If you’re still unconvinced about the importance of cursive, consider the research. Studies indicate that different brain areas activate when we write in print, cursive, or type on a keyboard. Dr. Alice Thompson, an educational psychologist at the University of California, found that handwriting engages memory, language, and cognitive functions. Interestingly, her research suggests that students who struggle with print often excel with cursive.
Learning cursive also aids in developing hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, and it encourages the brain to slow down, fostering deeper thought and creativity. A 2014 article in The Washington Post highlighted claims that cursive might be beneficial in treating dyslexia. Furthermore, standardized tests like the SAT still require handwritten responses, and data shows that those who write essays in cursive tend to perform slightly better. In fact, several states have recognized these advantages and have reintegrated cursive into their curricula.
For our family, learning cursive isn’t just about exam scores or sending beautifully written thank-you notes; it’s about fostering pride in my daughter’s capabilities. She has even created her unique signature, adorned with elegant loops and a heart dotting the “i.” When I compliment her on how lovely it looks, she beams and replies, “Thanks, Mom. I’m still practicing.”
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Summary
Teaching cursive writing remains relevant as it fosters focus, self-expression, and cognitive development in children. Despite its removal from some curricula, the benefits of cursive extend beyond mere aesthetics, contributing positively to a child’s growth and learning experience.