It's easier to teach kids handwriting with large strokes and with thick writing utensils like a dry-erase marker. Also, kids can learn to write the letters by writing real words instead of doing handwriting drills.

Handwriting lessons which involve drilling (such as writing squiggly lines, writing out the entire alphabet from Aa to Zz, or writing each letter over and over) are less effective.

Thin writing utensils like pencils are harder to grasp for beginners, and paper on the table does not allow for large strokes. The child may have a hard time keeping the paper from shifting all over the place.

Letter writing drills do not involve writing real words which makes the task quite boring to the child.

The above factors can make teaching letter writing a frustrating experience for both the adult and child.

We found Ms. Mia through a family in my son's class. The first few months of first grade we realized he had not gotten the reading basics he needed in kinder to move on and be a successful student in first grade. His handwriting was poor, and he had no confidence in his reading capabilities. He was reading below grade level when we started with Ms. Mia.

Within four weeks his handwriting had improved so much, and the frustration was totally gone. His letter formation was consistent, and he was proud to show us his new skill.

After the handwriting was corrected, his reading began to improve. We noticed an immediate change in his desire to read things and his excitement of learning new words. The methods Ms. Mia taught him gave him the confidence every week to ace every spelling test, finish every reading assignment, and find the joy and pride in reading everyday things.

He was happy to spend time with her every week, it was never forced or something we had to make him do. He was more than happy to spend the time with Ms. Mia every week to build on his reading skills. The pride we have seen is priceless. She had a true gift for teaching!

Sarah Weekley

Mother of First Grader