As a teacher, when analyzing the dynamics of a social fabric in which science and technology are advancing at a rapid pace and making impressive qualitative leaps, it is essential to equip our children with the cognitive and social skills they need to navigate this new, challenging, and fascinating world.
I realized that there is plenty of room for critical reflection. In the past, it was common to see families out on outings with children who carried paper, pens, colored pencils, and books to keep themselves entertained while the adults socialized. These days, it’s more common to put a cell phone or some other enticing electronic device in children’s hands, allowing them to quickly access a wide range of content with a simple touch of a finger.
I reflected on the evolution of “Homo sapiens, sapiens” and what conditions allowed our species to evolve rather than others.
Among the various factors that contributed to this development, one stands out for having brought about a remarkable evolution in our brains: the ability to oppose the index finger to the thumb. This dexterity allowed our species to create tools that not only aided our survival but also stimulated creativity.
This reflection led me to consider the advantages of drawing and writing at an early age. Handwriting seems to offer a variety of benefits, both cognitively and in terms of learning.
Let's take a look at a few:
Writing or drawing by hand improves fine motor skills. Using a pencil or pen requires careful and precise movements, which helps strengthen the muscles in the hands and fingers.
Handwriting stimulates cognitive skills, including organization, planning, and sequencing. Children learn to organize their ideas in a logical and consistent way.
Writing or drawing requires concentration and attention to detail, which can help improve children's attention in a variety of other activities.
The practice of drawing and writing by hand fosters creativity. This physical act establishes a deeper connection with thoughts and concepts.
Writing improves language skills, including aspects such as spelling, grammar, and creativity.
Finally, writing requires active processing of information. It is essential for children to reflect on the words they write, which contributes to a better understanding and critical analysis of the content.
It is gratifying to note that the practice of drawing and writing by hand plays an essential role in children’s cognitive and emotional development in their daily lives. This will certainly bring lasting benefits to their academic future.
Furthermore, I will never stop valuing new technologies, which are fundamental and indispensable in our daily lives, but we need to develop our children’s critical and creative thinking skills so that they will know how to make use of such innovative tools in the future.
- Maria do Céu Reis (Teacher)
