27/01/2026
Handwriting is primarily a process and then a product. It involves may underlying foundational operations to be mapped though an interplay of linguistics, emotions, and mechanics.. It’s so much more than “hold the pencil and write”.
In the digital age we have been accustomed to now, the important skill of handwriting is becoming increasingly lost. Although technology has helped in so many ways for speed and efficiency in various contexts, there remain set backs that reminds us of the days when handwriting was given such importance in daily lives. (Remember sending a card to announce news to a loved one? A crypic note in class to a friend? Writing a shopping list? Making a cheque? Filling out a withdrawal slip to take money out of the bank? Getting a permission note from your parent to give to your teacher? Writing your lunch order on a paper bag?!)
Legibility is only one component of writing and really does not need to be the primary focus. This is why in OT when a referral comes for “handwriting”, we take time unpacking what has brought the handwriting challenges to the surface by working in regulation, perception, and other areas before or parellel to the motor skill acquisition itself.
The use of technologies alters a person’s sensory feedback, engagement and perception in various ways. Research still stands that handwriting strengthens your “encoding effect” - this is where the effort of forming letters improves retention and comprehension.
The slower pace of handwriting helps facilitate control and neural pathways associated with literacy, memory, critical thinking, and creativity. In OT we work on and teach the process before fine tuning the product
So next time you need to make a quick note, a reminder to yourself, to plan your day ot just need to switch off, consider digging out that pencil. Instead of playing that game on your phone, spend a moment scribbling or colouring. No need to stress about how neat it is- the link between holding a tool in your hand and making movements with intent (conscious or subconsciously) has powerful processing and regulatory benefits for your neurological system.
For anyone who has seen me with my notebook, you will often notice my brain dump through out the day - often starting with a clear logical list, to scribbles of “oh i have to remember that for next time!”, progressing to doodles and decorations while my brain attempts to reorganise and process, to the satisfaction of crossing off parts that are done. It’s a process for sure.. but the magic is in the journey.
