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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.
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