The Impact of Letter Formation on Learning

Have you ever thought about how your child forms letters when they write?

It might seem like a small thing, but it can actually have a big impact on their academic performance.

There have been some interesting studies showing just how crucial it is to start off on the right foot when it comes to letter formation.

Imagine this: you're learning to write, and you begin by forming letters incorrectly. Well, those incorrect habits can stick around, making it tough to fix them later on. That's because your brain builds strong connections for the way you initially learned to write.

So, let's dive into why letter formation matters and how you can make sure your child is doing it right.

Starting in the Right Place

The first step to good letter formation is starting in the correct position. It might sound simple, but it sets the stage for everything that follows. 

Flow and Efficiency

Correct letter formation isn't just about aesthetics; it's also about flow and efficiency when you're writing. Think of it this way: when your child forms their letters properly, their writing has a smooth and natural rhythm. But if they've picked up bad habits, their writing can become clunky and slow. That can be frustrating and make it hard to get their thoughts down on paper quickly.

The Trouble with Incorrect Formation

When kids are used to writing letters the wrong way, it can affect academic performance. Their writing might be hard to read, and they might spend more time fixing mistakes instead of focusing on their ideas and sadly, it can take the joy out of writing.

Consistent Practice is Key

The good news is that kids can fix their letter formation issues with a little practice and the right support. When we are helping to correct letter formation, we explicitly say to kids how we want them to write it. We then model it and then they copy over the top. Then they practise next to it, then they do one with their eyes closed and visualise what they are doing. This reinforces the correct sequence of movements. You can also use letter formation charts as handy visual guides to assist with a reinforcement of incorrect formation. Charts can show you where to start each letter and help kids avoid common mistakes like letter reversals.

In a nutshell, letter formation is a small but mighty factor in your child's academic success. Starting with the right habits can make a world of difference. So, keep practicing, use those charts, and watch your child's handwriting skills start to improve.