I know that in the big scheme of things, this topic barely makes the map, but what do you think about cursive handwriting? Is it becoming a lost art? Should we continue to teach it to our children?
People I've spoken to who say we should drop it say it is outmoded. I know that in my life I’ve never been asked to write anything in cursive except my signature, and yet every form I’ve ever filled out says plainly on it, “PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY.” Also, think of the class time spent on handwriting – couldn’t it be put to better use helping kids to learn their times tables, or in implementing reading strategies?
Then there are those that rightfully say that we should teach our students cursive because it is faster than printing, and quicker writing is a skill everyone should know. And of course, there are the stalwarts who simply want to hang on to the art of beautiful writing.
I think that both arguments are valid and that the answer is for parents who feel that cursive is of value to work on it at home with their children as a gift for them that will last a lifetime, and have teachers use the time in class on more academic pursuits.
What do you think?
