EPISODE · Jan 15, 2026 · 31 MIN
Why Handwriting Still Matters: Brain Development, Literacy, and Learning with Holly Britton from Squiggle Squad
from What Great Teachers Know That All Parents Can Use · host Peyten Williams, Bowbend Consulting
In this episode of What Great Teachers Know That All Parents Can Use, we’re joined by handwriting instruction specialist Holly Britton to explore why handwriting still matters, especially for elementary and middle school students growing up in a digital world.With children typing more than ever at school, it’s easy to assume handwriting is becoming obsolete. But research and classroom experience tell a very different story. Holly explains how handwriting plays a critical role in brain development, literacy, motor skills, and learning, creating a powerful connection between the hands and the brain that typing simply can’t replicate. Holly also shares why correcting handwriting in the moment is so important for parents, and how small, early adjustments can prevent bad habits that become difficult to break later. You’ll gain practical insight into what to look for, how to support your child without frustration, and why handwriting instruction is about much more than neatness.Whether your child struggles with handwriting, resists writing tasks, or you’re simply wondering how much handwriting still matters today, this episode offers research-backed guidance and practical strategies parents can use right away.Holly's Bio and ResourcesHolly Britton, M.Ed., is a curriculum designer, handwriting specialist, and instructional advisorwith teaching experience in grades K-8. Her passion for learning and teaching came organicallyover 18 years of educating her own four children, teaching in classrooms, and serving as acurriculum director at a private school. She is the founder and creator of Squiggle Squad, a TK-2 handwriting curriculum. She continues to work with teachers and children to improve literacy.Holly has over 26 years of private and public educational experience. She lives in the SierraNevada mountains where she relishes time with her friends and family including her horses,Shasta and Dash. www.squigglesquad.com/blogInstagram: @squigglesquadhandwriting@hollyonhandwritingFacebook: www.facebook.com/squigglesquadLinkedIn: www.linkedin/in/hollyhandwritingFREE Resources: Digital Handout
What this episode covers
In this episode of What Great Teachers Know That All Parents Can Use, we’re joined by handwriting instruction specialist Holly Britton to explore why handwriting still matters, especially for elementary and middle school students growing up in a digital world.With children typing more than ever at school, it’s easy to assume handwriting is becoming obsolete. But research and classroom experience tell a very different story. Holly explains how handwriting plays a critical role in brain development, literacy, motor skills, and learning, creating a powerful connection between the hands and the brain that typing simply can’t replicate. Holly also shares why correcting handwriting in the moment is so important for parents, and how small, early adjustments can prevent bad habits that become difficult to break later. You’ll gain practical insight into what to look for, how to support your child without frustration, and why handwriting instruction is about much more than neatness.Whether your child struggles with handwriting, resists writing tasks, or you’re simply wondering how much handwriting still matters today, this episode offers research-backed guidance and practical strategies parents can use right away.Holly's Bio and ResourcesHolly Britton, M.Ed., is a curriculum designer, handwriting specialist, and instructional advisorwith teaching experience in grades K-8. Her passion for learning and teaching came organicallyover 18 years of educating her own four children, teaching in classrooms, and serving as acurriculum director at a private school. She is the founder and creator of Squiggle Squad, a TK-2 handwriting curriculum. She continues to work with teachers and children to improve literacy.Holly has over 26 years of private and public educational experience. She lives in the SierraNevada mountains where she relishes time with her friends and family including her horses,Shasta and Dash. www.squigglesquad.com/blogInstagram: @squigglesquadhandwriting@hollyonhandwritingFacebook: www.facebook.com/squigglesquadLinkedIn: www.linkedin/in/hollyhandwritingFREE Resources: Digital Handout
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Why Handwriting Still Matters: Brain Development, Literacy, and Learning with Holly Britton from Squiggle Squad
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