Handwriting Without Tears

Introducing The Handwriting Without Tears Program

Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) is the easy way to teach pre-printing, printing and cursive. This program was developed by Jan Z. Olsen, OTR, an occupational therapist and handwriting specialist. HWT is an inclusive method for teaching children of ALL ability levels. A multi-sensory approach to writing, the program is suitable for children with a variety of learning styles - visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic.

Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) incorporates materials that appeal to kids who need help with letter formation, reversal, spacing, and cursive connections. Children love the interactive, multi-sensory aspect of Handwriting Without Tears, and parents appreciate the simple and clear instructions that make it easy to begin teaching. Individual, as well as group handwriting therapy is available.

Treatment strategies vary for each individual who displays difficulty with handwriting. Some motor deficiencies can contribute to handwriting problems (Szklut, & Breath, 2001), and must be addressed in a manner that's appropriate to the condition. Used in conjuction with the Handwriting Without Tears workbooks, some possible interventions for handwriting include:

• Positioning for proper use of the arms, hands, head, and eyes
• Inhibition / facilitation of muscle tone
• Postural control, which frees individuals to focus on writing tasks
• Upper extremity control beginning with shoulder stability
• Forearm control involving the development of rotation (pronation and supination)
• Refining grasp/release for increased productivity
• Promoting development of in-hand manipulation to improve productivity
• Bilateral skill development (skills that require coordination of both sides of the body, e.g. stabilizing and adjusting the paper with one hand while using the other hand to write

The Growing Together Therapeutic Center integrates the Handwriting Without Tears method and workbooks with our Occupational Prep Preschool and Finger Gymnastics class.

Contact us to find out how we can help your child overcome challenges and embark on the path to learning, discovery and fun!