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The Hidden Link Between Handwriting and Executive Functioning

When children sit down to practice handwriting, it might look like they’re simply learning how to form letters. But behind every “a” and “b” is a whole lot of brain work happening, especially in the areas of executive functioning.

Executive functioning is the set of mental skills that help children plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage tasks. And even in something as simple as writing the alphabet, these skills play a big role. So if your child finds handwriting tricky, it might not just be about pencil grip or letter shapes, it could be about how their brain is managing the task.

How Executive Functioning Supports Handwriting


Even basic letter formation involves:

  • Planning: Knowing where to start and how to shape the letter
  • Working memory: Remembering what the letter looks like and how to form it
  • Attention: Staying focused long enough to complete the task
  • Self-monitoring: Checking if the letter looks right and fits on the line

 

These are all executive functioning skills and they’re just as important as fine motor control when it comes to handwriting success.

 

Free Ways to Support Both at Home

You don’t need fancy tools or complicated routines to help your child build the skills they need to thrive. Here are some simple, everyday strategies that support both executive functioning and basic letter formation and they’re easy to weave into your home life.

 

1. Create a Visual Writing Routine

Children thrive on predictability. A short, consistent writing routine helps build focus, task initiation, and confidence.

Try this:

  • Choose a regular time each day for a short handwriting activity
  • Use a visual schedule or checklist (e.g., “Pick a letter → Trace it → Write it → Colour it”)
  • Keep materials in a dedicated space so your child knows where to start

 

In a world full of screens and touchpads, it’s easy to assume that handwriting practice on a tablet is just as good as using pencil and paper. But when it comes to developing fine motor skills and executive functioning, traditional tools still have the edge.

 

2. Use “First–Then” Language

Executive functioning includes the ability to start tasks and stick with them. A “first–then” approach helps children know what’s expected and what’s coming next.

Try this:

  • “First write three letters, then you can play.”
  • “First finish your tracing, then we’ll read a book together.”

This builds task initiation and motivation in a gentle, structured way.

 

3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps

Big tasks can feel overwhelming. Breaking them down helps children stay focused and feel successful.

Try this:

  • Instead of “Write the alphabet,” say “Let’s do A–C today.”
  • Use sticky notes or a whiteboard to list each step
  • Celebrate each small win to build momentum

 

4. Use Multi-Sensory Letter Practice

Multi-sensory activities support fine motor development and attention—two key ingredients for handwriting and executive functioning.

Try this:

  • Write letters in sand, shaving cream, or salt trays
  • Use playdough to form letters
  • Trace letters with fingers before using a pencil

These activities are engaging and help children stay focused longer.

 

5. Encourage Self-Monitoring

Executive functioning includes the ability to check and reflect on one’s own work. You can build this skill gently during handwriting practice.

Try this:

  • Create a simple checklist: “Did I start at the top?” “Is my letter sitting on the line?”
  • Let your child tick off each item after writing
  • Praise effort and progress, not just perfection

 

6. Talk About Planning and Progress

Helping children think ahead and reflect builds metacognition—a powerful executive skill.

Try this:

  • “What’s your plan for writing today?”
  • “Which letter do you want to practice next?”
  • “What helped you stay focused today?”

These conversations build awareness and ownership of learning.

 

Want More Support?

If your child needs a little extra help, our two courses carefully curated together grounded on research and developed with real-life learning in mind:

 

  • Lowercase Legends is a playful, confidence-building course focused on fine motor skills and basic letter formation.
  • Get Sorted helps children develop executive functioning skills like planning, focus, and self-organisation. Skills that support learning across the board, including handwriting.

 

Together, they help children feel more capable, organised, and ready to learn.