One of the things I’ve always admired about my fellow teacher-colleagues is their beautiful ‘teacher writing.’ I could never quite get it looking like theirs. I put it down to be left-handed and managed to muddle through. I remember teaching handwriting using a projector back then. It was so much easier than teaching handwriting on a whiteboard, but I still had to grapple with the infamous lead-in and lead-out strokes. They were the bane of my early teacher life. My experience in teaching handwriting through various schemes only left me wondering why are we complicating such a simple art form?

It wasn’t until I was I an adult that I discovered MagicLink handwriting somewhat serendipitously while working at an education centre. I came across a group of children diligently working on their letters joins. I was amazed. A week later, I was doing the 30-step programme myself and with the support of Lee Dein (Magic Link founder), I became a Magic Link handwriting teacher! I’ve since taught many students transform their handwriting and boost their confidence in writing.

The Magic Link programme starts with the fundamentals of handwriting: posture and pencil grip. It has 15 letters that have a straight link and there are no lead-ins! The result is handwriting it legible and clear, and children are so proud of their new handwriting. I would highly recommend the programme. Having done the programme with my own children, I can say as a parent and a teacher, just how magical the transformation is. Handwriting does not need to be intricate and difficult anymore. With lead-ins being a thing of the past, the process has become a whole lot simpler.

As an 11+ tutor, I’ve also noticed how the MagicLink process has helped children who struggle with timing and writing within exam constraints. When children can write more quickly and legibly, they can focus more on the content of their answers rather than the mechanics of writing. This can make a significant difference in high-pressure exam situations, where every minute counts.

But beyond exams and classroom tasks, the transformation in handwriting has broader impacts. Clear handwriting fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment in children. They are more likely to enjoy writing and engage in activities that involve written communication. This is crucial in a digital age where keyboard skills are emphasised but the art of handwriting still holds essential cognitive and motor skills benefits.

Furthermore, the confidence that comes from mastering a skill like handwriting can spill over into other areas of a child’s life. I’ve seen students who, after improving their handwriting, approach other challenges with a newfound belief in their abilities. It’s as if overcoming this particular hurdle gives them the courage to tackle others.

Another aspect of the Magic Link programme that stands out is its adaptability. The structured 30-step programme is designed to accommodate different learning paces and styles. This means that whether a child is a fast learner or needs more time to grasp the concepts, the programme can be tailored to their needs. This personalised approach is key to its success and the sustained improvements seen in students’ handwriting.

In conclusion, discovering Magic Link handwriting has been a game-changer for both my teaching practice and my personal experience with handwriting. It simplifies what was once a complex process and turns it into an achievable goal for every student. The clarity and confidence it brings to children’s writing are truly magical. I encourage educators and parents alike to explore this programme and witness the transformation it can bring. Handwriting doesn’t have to be a lost art; with the right approach, it can be a source of pride and accomplishment for every child.

To find out more about this programme, check out the Magic Link Handwriting website.