Why Handwriting Still Matters: Brain Development, Literacy, and Learning with Holly Britton from Squiggle Squad

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of handwriting in brain development and learning with expert Holly Britton.

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…

People in this episode

Host: Peyten Williams

Guest: Holly Britton

Topics covered

• handwriting
• brain development
• literacy
• motor skills
• learning
• parenting

Keywords

• handwriting
• brain development
• literacy
• motor skills
• learning strategies
• parenting tips

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Squiggle Squad

More episodes of What Great Teachers Know That All Parents Can Use

• How to Have Difficult Conversations with Kids: Parenting Leadership with Rebecca Malotke-Meslin · May 14, 2026 · 40 min
• Parenting with the End in Mind: Raising Children of Character with Chris Cleveland · April 30, 2026 · 36 min
• Autonomy, Not Pressure: The Secret to Motivated Kids with Chanita Jones · April 7, 2026 · 33 min
• Parenting Teens Through the College Process with Jay McCann: How to Build a Smart College List Without the Stress · March 15, 2026 · 27 min
• Why Movement Matters: The Preschool Brain, Behavior, and School Readiness Connection with Erin Carey · March 15, 2026 · 38 min
• The Parent Ecosystem: A Foundation for Your Child's Mental Health · February 15, 2026 · 27 min