When handwriting is slow
Your child knows what to write but takes a very long time to write it. Slow writing usually means letters are not automatic yet: each one still takes thinking.
For: Parents, teachers and therapists of children aged 4 to 8
A cover page with the plan, then 10 worksheets in order (11 pages). Free, no sign-up.
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Save to PinterestWhy it happens
- When letter formation is not automatic, all attention goes to making the letters, leaving little for ideas and spelling.
- Starting letters in the wrong place makes writing slow and awkward.
- Some children are slow because of motor difficulties, attention or perfectionism.
What helps
- Short daily practice of letters (5 to 10 minutes) builds automatic writing.
- Check where letters start; fix wrong starts first.
- Practise the most common letters and words most.
- Let your child say ideas out loud first so writing is only the writing.
- From about age 7, typing can be practised as well.
The planstep by step.
1Automatic letters
Letter families with start dots.
2Common words
Sight words written fast and neatly.
3Try and best
Try it, then your best try, then a quick try.
4Typing
Find the letters on the keyboard.
When to ask for help
Ask the teacher or an occupational therapist (OT) if your child of 7 or older writes much less than classmates in the same time, or avoids writing because it is so slow.
These worksheets are practice materials, not a diagnosis or a treatment. Every child develops at their own pace. If you are worried, talk to your child’s teacher, doctor or a specialist.
Questions
Questions about slow handwriting
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Should a slow writer type instead?
Related packs
Sources
The LetterSchool app
Between worksheets: practise in the app
The same letter shapes as this sheet, with instant feedback on every line, animations and stars. Children play, and learn the right formation.