NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY
National Handwriting Day on January 23rd encourages us to put pen to paper and write out our thoughts. According to the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association, it is a chance for all to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting.
#NationalHandwritingDay
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While technology speeds up the writing process and makes communication more efficient worldwide, there’s something to be said for writing thoughts longhand. Whether it’s a journal, notes, or even a letter to someone, the act of writing with pen and paper is a supremely tactile and patient practice. If it does anything, it forces the body and the mind to slow down and resynchronize.
Look around. In mere seconds, letters and words form when we text or email. Phones transmit our voices in real time. Once sent or said, those words cannot be recalled.
Meanwhile, writing longhand feels like taking a deep breath. Jumbled thoughts must be sorted before the ink spills onto a white page. They must count and be worthy of the lines that will fill it. It’s an exercise in faith. And it requires practice, too.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY
Whether you’re out of practice or execute some beautiful handwriting, share a little handwritten message with us. Here are a few other ideas to try:
- Start a journal.
- Send a handwritten letter to a friend or family member.
- Write a short story or poem.
- Take a calligraphy class.
- Write a to-do list.
- Leave a love note for someone dear to you.
- Compliment someone with a handwritten sticky note.
- Pay with a check – if you dare.
- Leave your server a tip and a handwritten word of thanks for their service.
Work on your handwriting and use #NationalHandwritingDay to post on social media.
Educators, visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for ways to #CelebrateEveryDay with your students.
NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY HISTORY
National Handwriting Day was established by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association in 1977. Their motive is to promote the consumption of pens, pencils, and writing paper. January 23rd was chosen as this is the birthday of John Hancock. John Hancock was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence.
Handwriting FAQ
Q. Is one type of handwriting better than another?
A. Both cursive and printed letters offer a variety of benefits. Both strengthen fine motor skills but cursive is the stronger of the two. Printing is more widely used, however. Books, newspapers, forms, and websites all use a print or block form of a letter. It’s also easier to read, which is why it’s used in so many ways. Spacing occurs naturally between words when using cursive. Since each letter is separate in printing, sometimes words run together.
Q. How can I improve my handwriting?
A. One sure way to improve your handwriting is practice. Practice writing lists, letters, a journal of poetry. Write every day and you will see an improvement in your handwriting.