Handwriting development in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is crucial, as it lays the foundation for a lifelong skill that supports effective learning. Fine motor control and oral composition develop apace in the early years; however, the combination of complex skills required for writing is challenging to teach, and the Early Learning Goals (ELG) for writing can be difficult to achieve. Given the pressures of handwriting instruction in the early years, practical insights and evidence-based approaches are essential for teachers.
Importance of Early Handwriting Instruction
Handwriting is an important skill that supports effective learning, with Berninger et al. (2002) identifying transcription as one of three key aspects of writing development. Early handwriting instruction shapes this essential skill, making it imperative that teachers approach it systematically and thoughtfully.
Handwriting Policies: Cursive vs. Print
Debates on handwriting policies often focus on whether to teach cursive or print. However, rigorous research on this topic is limited, leaving Early Years teachers with weak evidence to navigate these strong opinions. The Department for Education’s (DfE) Reading Framework advises schools to consider delaying the teaching of joined handwriting. This guidance is supported by Ofsted’s Bold Beginnings report, which found that highly regarded schools did not teach cursive or pre-cursive writing in Reception. Moreover, newly validated phonics schemes do not include cursive writing, and there is no statutory expectation for cursive in EYFS.
Evidence-Based Handwriting Instruction
Despite the limited evidence on the cursive versus print debate, early years teachers can draw on existing research to shape effective handwriting instruction. The Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) report "Preparing for Literacy" recommends focusing on three interconnected elements of handwriting instruction: practice, motivation, and the product and process of writing.
Product and Process
A correctly formed letter can result from a flawed process, which can hinder fast and fluent transcription. Addressing this issue early by focusing on the correct start point and movement pattern of each letter is crucial. The National Handwriting Association (NHA) suggests that print letters are easier to learn because they require fewer strokes, reducing the pressure on working memory.
Practice
Extensive practice in the EYFS is essential for mastering complex transcription skills. Younger children benefit from unstructured activities, such as drawing, which help develop fine motor skills. Older children might require more direct guidance on writing specific words and letters. The NHA’s "Good Practice for Handwriting Toolkit" offers procedures for effective practice, including helping children with posture, pencil grip, pressure, and paper control.
Motivation
For practice to be effective, children need to be motivated to write. While attractive writing tools may provide short-term motivation, giving children opportunities to publish and share their written work can foster sustained interest. Encouraging children to tell stories aloud can also stimulate their desire to write. The Center for Early Literacy Learning provides practice guides with ideas for motivating activities.
Supporting Children Who Struggle with Handwriting
Many children find handwriting challenging and may require additional support. Accurate diagnosis and targeted intervention are crucial for addressing specific misconceptions and barriers. Diagnosing difficulties during EYFS is particularly powerful, as it can prevent the development of long-term misconceptions. The NHA’s categories (such as size, sitting on the line, spacing) can support effective assessment. Fine motor skill interventions can also be beneficial, though they must target the specific skills required for handwriting. Research suggests that direct handwriting instruction has a greater impact than general motor instruction (Santangelo & Graham, 2015).
Conclusion
Effective handwriting instruction in the EYFS does not have a one-size-fits-all solution. However, focusing on the principles of process, practice, and motivation can help create a coherent curriculum. The early years are a critical time for cultivating a love of writing and preventing the development of long-term misconceptions. By balancing these elements, teachers can support children in developing strong handwriting skills that will benefit them throughout their academic journey and beyond.
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