DAL JENCSO spoke of Whole Language to DAN TRIPLETT on 08-03-96
DJ>DT> I would agree.  It seems only natural to teach these "early
DJ>DT> writers" that spelling is important to any final draft.  When
DJ>DT> I write (even in t
DJ>On a personal note, think about handwriting also. I realize that 
DJ>the fine motor skills are not developed in K and that writing is 
DJ>not taught. However, my youngest was told she could hold the 
DJ>pencil any way she wanted- it has taken her 3 years to overcome 
DJ>her bad habits.  I wish she had been given gentle guidance in K.
I fully agree with you.  For some children who have difficulty holding a 
pencil correctly what is needed are more fine motor activities to help 
strengthen the hand.  Clay, playdough, puzzles, etc are activities that 
kids enjoy and they are good for their development.  I also have a daily 
routine of writing and I first observe pencil grips.  Then we tailor 
activities to fit needs.  And as you suggest, a gentle guide on how to 
hold a pencil is important especially to some children who experience 
the most difficulty.
Take care,  Dan
CMPQwk 1.42 445p
"...people who have no vices have very few virtues."  -- A. Lincoln
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