The Right Way to Write

Pine Row children were given the opportunity to write in a variety of settings. Changing the way we present writing experiences from tabletop level to vertical increases engagement and fine motor development.

Here are significant ways vertical writing supports future writing: 1. The shoulder engages against gravity, which promotes development and superior positioning of the arm, hand, and fingers for grasping writing tools and manipulatives. A strong shoulder is needed in order for the hand to move well. 2. The wrist extends (bends slightly backward) for increased comfort when using writing tools. Writing vertically promotes proper wrist extension and stability. 3. Vertical writing helps facilitate grasping patterns. 4. The developing visual system benefits from direct, eye-level placement of media in a vertical format for easier recognition. Vertical placement helps children focus on the material and their work. Pine Row children will continue to have a variety of opportunities to write and draw in a vertical format.