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Many are questioning the value of
handwriting today because of the computer and the importance of typing
in modern society. This is an important question, and we believe
very strongly that every child should be started on a typing program as
early as possible and learn to use a computer skillfully. The CLAA
would not exist without such technology and skill.
However, this kind of pragmatic thinking is
shallow and unexamined. Anyone who wishes to deny the value of
handwriting should also deny the value of riding a bicycle, going to a
concert, planting a kitchen garden or visiting a friend to talk.
After all, none of these things are necessary with modern
technology.
Beyond mere communication, there are many
secondary benefits of handwriting. Students improve their reading
skills by carefully forming letters and learning the details of their
shapes and parts. Students learn basic drawing skills by imitating
examples and satisfying standards of accuracy and beauty.
Most of all, we must be careful to avoid the
reckless temptation to deny our children skills we take for granted.
This is one of the errors of recent generations that has negatively
affected all areas of life. Our children must learn to write by
hand. |
