Learning to write systematically

Pay attention to posture

Pay attention to posture

Over time, the way a child grasps a pencil is subject to change, just as a child’s grasp will develop from rough and unspecific into something more specific and differentiated. Most toddlers grasp a pencil with their whole fist. By the time children start school they should master the so-called tripod grip. The pencil rests on the middle finger, while it is guided by the index finger and the thumb. Both the forearm and the hand should rest comfortably on the desktop to allow for smooth and even writing movements.
Apart from the right stroke and the correct pencil grasp, your child must also practise to apply the right amount of pressure to the pencil - not too little and not too much. Once he or she is able to master this task, the pencil will smoothly and adeptly glide over the surface of the paper. Maintaining a bad posture and exercising an excessive amount of pressure may result in pressure marks as well as an unhealthy, cramped posture of the fingers and the body children may eventually get used to. You should counter this development by obtaining an ergonomic writing implement that fits the hand very nicely. Please make sure that you child takes enough short breaks while engaging in writing exercises. This will give your child the opportunity to loosen his or her muscles and to relax.