As a parent, I’ve come to realize that cursive writing is not at the top of my priority list for my child’s education. Sure, I might scrawl my name in cursive on a receipt now and then, but that’s about the extent of my usage. I’ve heard that knowing cursive is essential for reading historical documents like the Declaration of Independence, but honestly, that’s what the internet and those fancy fonts are for!
I vividly remember the struggle of learning cursive in second grade, especially with the D’Nealian writing style that felt like a double whammy of frustration. While some argue that writing can enhance brain function, science shows that it doesn’t matter whether kids print or write in cursive—both serve their purpose. And in my opinion, science still has a place in our world, despite what some may think.
So, while some may think I’m a cursive-hating monster, I’d much prefer my child spend their school hours engaged in activities that truly matter. Here are a few that come to mind:
- Mastering Print Writing: Let’s make sure they can write legibly in print first. If my child’s fourth-grade writing is any indication, we’ve got some serious work to do on spelling too. I swear, I won’t send a kid out into the world who can’t use their, they’re, and there correctly!
- Getting Physical: I want my child to run around so they come home tired after a long day at school. Tired kids are easier to manage. They eat dinner without complaints and head to bed without needing a stern talking-to!
- Learning Mindfulness: Meditation is key to helping children calm down and focus. After a weekend in a car with my kids, I think I could use a bit of that myself!
- Expressing Creativity: Let them explore art and get messy at school instead of turning my home into a glitter explosion. I have enough cleaning to do without adding paint splatters to the list.
- Practicing Music: If they could practice the recorder in school, that would save me from the nightly sounds of their musical experiments at home.
- Completing Projects Independently: I’d love for them to work on their science project at school without needing my assistance. Can we make that a standard?
- Navigating Friendships: Understanding relationships is crucial for their overall growth and will help them become independent adults one day.
- Studying History: Learning history is essential to ensure we don’t repeat mistakes of the past, right?
- Journaling Their Thoughts: With all the chatter in our home, my kids could be writing down their stories for hours!
- Less Forgery: And if they never learn cursive, it makes it harder for them to forge my signature in high school—talk about a win!
So, while some may advocate for cursive, I believe there are far more valuable skills for children to learn. Yes, cursive can be beneficial for certain learners, but let’s focus on what truly enriches their education, like physical activities, art, and music.
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In summary, cursive writing isn’t a priority for me as a parent. There are far more essential skills I want my child to focus on, from physical fitness to creative expression. Let’s embrace what truly matters in education!