In our digitally saturated world, the allure of screens for our young children’s learning is undeniable. However, when it comes to the fundamental skill of writing, the traditional method of using pencils, crayons, or a pen on paper holds significant advantages. Let’s examine why this tactile approach remains superior, particularly in light of growing concerns about the impact of screen-based education.
IS THERE A RESEARCH REPORT THAT VALIDATES THIS ASSERTION?
Here’s a research report that validates this : https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337422860_Paper_versus_Screen_Impact_on_Reading_Comprehension_and_Speed
WHY IS WRITING BY HAND ON PAPER SO VERY IMPORTANT?
1. A Deeper Connection to Learning and Enhanced Memory
The physical act of forming letters by hand on paper (not digital screens) creates a more substantial, multi-sensory learning experience. Engaging with the texture of the paper, the pressure of the pencil or pen, and the deliberate shaping of each character contribute to the development of robust neural pathways. This kinesthetic learning not only aids in initial acquisition but also significantly improves memory and retention. Studies have shown that physically writing something down makes it more likely to be remembered compared to typing it or scribbling on a screen. Handwriting development also has other long-term creative spin-offs, as Apple’s founder, Steve Jobs, had confessed in his biographical book.
2. Boosting Fine Motor Skills and Coordination
Holding a pencil or pen and maneuvering it to form letters is an intricate exercise for a child’s developing fine motor skills. These precise movements strengthen hand muscles and improve hand-eye coordination – skills vital for writing and numerous other essential tasks, such as dressing, eating, and crafting. Digital interfaces, while engaging, don’t offer the same level of tactile resistance and control necessary for this crucial development.
3. Cultivating Focus and Minimizing Digital Distractions
A simple sheet of paper and a pencil offer a focused learning environment free from the constant barrage of digital distractions. Unlike tablets or computers with their tempting notifications and endless apps, the traditional method encourages sustained attention on the task at hand. This fosters the ability to concentrate deeply—a skill increasingly challenged in our digitally driven lives.
4. Nurturing Creativity and Personal Expression
The blank page provides a unique canvas for creativity. Children can freely sketch ideas, doodle, and experiment with letter formation without the constraints or the immediate deletion offered by digital tools. The tangible nature of writing allows for a more personal connection to their work, fostering a sense of ownership and encouraging self-expression through their unique handwriting and the ease with which they can integrate drawings with text.
5. Building a Stronger Foundation for Future Literacy
The neural connections forged through the physical act of writing are fundamental for developing strong reading comprehension and spelling skills. When children physically form letters, their brains develop a deeper understanding of letter shapes and sequences, which makes it easier for them to recognize words and comprehend their structure. This tactile experience lays a more robust foundation for future literacy development compared to the more abstract interaction with digital keyboards.
6. The Growing Global Concern: Prioritizing Hands-On Learning
The potential downsides of excessive screen time for young learners are becoming increasingly recognized worldwide. Several countries, including France, Germany, Australia, and Finland, have implemented policies that ban or severely restrict the use of screens in schools for younger children, often up to the age of 12 or so. These decisions are driven by concerns about the impact of screens on cognitive development, attention spans, and overall well-being, underscoring the value placed on traditional, hands-on learning methods, such as writing on paper with a pencil or pen.
Try this simple test yourself, dear parent – try writing on a paper pad to make your list or ‘things to do’ versus remembering on a digital pad and notice the difference in recall & memory effectiveness.
ANY INDEPENDENT MEDIA REPORT THAT VALIDATES THIS POINT OF VIEW?
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/jan/17/kids-reading-better-paper-vs-screen
While technology offers valuable tools for education, the fundamental act of writing by hand remains crucial for a child’s development. By prioritizing pen or pencil and paper, we provide our children with a richer, more engaging, and ultimately more effective pathway to literacy and lifelong learning.
Let’s FIRST BUILD THEIR NEURAL/ACADEMIC/UNDERSTANDING FOUNDATIONS – BEFORE EXPOSING OUR CHILDREN TO DIGITAL SCREENS (IN A LIMITED WAY) LATER IN HIGH SCHOOL, PERHAPS.
LIKE MANY OTHER ASPECTS, THERE’S A RIGHT TIME/AGE FOR EVERYTHING!
So let’s empower our children to excel – by writing and practicing on paper at the Sixth Element School.
WE CHOOSE WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOUR CHILD – OVER WHAT IS FASHIONABLE / PERCEIVED AS MODERN.
WHY DO SO MANY MODERN SCHOOLS IN GURUGRAM INTRODUCE LAPTOP/PAD LED SCHOOLING GRADE 1 ONWARDS?
Sadly, yes. Despite research pointing to the contrary.
So let’s steer clear of fancy schools that introduce laptop- or pad-led schooling from grade 1 onwards.
What are your thoughts, fellow Gurugram parents? Have you reflected on these key points or are grappling with this matter?
Do share your views, experiences and insights in the comments below!
We hope this helps you, dear parent!
Meanwhile enjoy developing your child at a good neighborhood school, home and outdoors
There are some great parks/green spots/sports fields near at as well near our school campuses – consider locating a suitable one in your neighborhood, for encouraging physical activity – the seeds of any sports – near say:
- SouthCity1
- Sector31
- Sector40
- Sushant Lok
- Sector72
- Sector70
- Sectot71
- Sector48
- Badshahpur corridor*
- Leisure Valley
(*) which is right next to the Sixth Element – Tata Primanti campus – and the trees near our school’s north/east boundary – help filter our school campus air, too.
Why – the Sixth Element School?
The Sixth Element was a phrase coined by the school founders 20 years back to illustrate igniting the joy of learning – crucial for children’s development – as we nurture and prepare them for the future.
How to Foster a Well-Rounded Child?
While there is lots of operating structure and detailed SOPs in the school’s daily /weekly/monthly/annual – schedules – “how” the same is executed is unique – i.e., the Sixth element way of incorporating co-curricular & scientific & artistic activities, project work etc – leading to children enjoy learning & look forward to coming to school each day (and interestingly they do miss school on holidays 😊 ! )
Some examples of what’s done to instill values & character building:
- Instill values: Understanding differences between right and wrong is often discussed in its many facets. Discussing environmental issues, volunteering for community activities, clean-ups, and respecting all living beings.
- Values as a Compass: Values are the moral principles that guide our actions. The Cambridge International Curriculum emphasizes global citizenship and community service and fosters values like respect, empathy, and responsibility.
- Embrace sustainability: Reduce waste, conserve energy, and grow your food together. Encouraging minimalism (BTW, we are a uniform school), upcycling, gardening, and exploring green technologies like rainwater harvesting, recycling, etc.
- Building Confidence: The curriculum’s focus on individual & team achievement (over experiential projects in small groups) and overcoming difficulties – and making progress, encouraged by the teacher, helps build self-esteem. Students develop a strong sense of confidence and resilience by setting and achieving goals.
- Life Skills for Real World: The curriculum’s focus on independent learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving equips students with essential life skills. These skills are invaluable in navigating challenges and opportunities- building confidence.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT’ School’s commitment to sustainability?
At the Sixth Element, we believe that education should go beyond classrooms. Our green, airy, spacious campuses are a living laboratory where children learn experimentally about sustainable practices. From solar panels to rainwater harvesting, recycling & near no plastics usage.
Our curriculum integrates sustainability into every subject, fostering a deep appreciation for nature, science, commerce & the arts – while instilling a desire to protect our planet.
By igniting the joy of learning and nurturing curiosity, confidence, values, and environmental consciousness – we empower children to become successful individuals and equally responsible members of society and global citizens.
Does a unique International Curriculum School like the Sixth Element help?
A progressive holistic school following Cambridge International Curriculum significantly contributes to lots of experiential learning and project-based work.
The Sixth Element School: Where Cambridge International meets India- in an exclusive, low-density, impactful format.
The reason why we chose the Cambridge International curriculum is that the blend of teacher-directed as well as learner-self-driven learning & research seems to be relevant for aspirational kids from Indian families, keen on preparing their kids to be global citizens of the future – whether based in India or overseas.
Is the Sixth Element School duly registered with Cambridge International?
Yes, The Sixth Element School – is duly registered as one of over 10,000 schools globally – as a Cambridge International school with a global registration number IA 892
Keen to see what a unique school like The Sixth Element School offers? Schedule a visit and see why it could be the perfect launchpad for your child’s bright, global future!
We started the first sixth element school 20 years back in 2004 @ Gurgaon.
Our schools & afternoon extended school & afternoon’ activities enriched’ daycare centres are unique, exclusive, compact neighborhood green campuses – where many outdoor activities & experiential learning (physical – not digital) occur with children on most days.
Our unique Smaller campus – with only two sections per class grade – and minimal children on campus allow us to focus on each child’s growth & development properly.
We are proud of our high-quality, committed teachers – the backbone of any good learning environment.
We raise well-rounded future ready individuals who are prepared to face the challenges of the world with confidence and integrity – with the proper methods and practices. For example, our foundational fitness program delivered in partnership with fit Kids, our gym, our green playgrounds and great coaches gives our school kids a great foundational fitness start.
A good understanding and partnership between parents and schools is key to nurturing the future leaders of gurugram, our great nation and planet.
THE SIXTH ELEMENT SCHOOL WE BELIEVE IN THE IMPORTANCE OF CATALYSING & ENSURING “THE SIXTH ELEMENT – i.e. THE JOY OF LEARNING ” FOR EVERY CHILD. OUR CURRICULUM IS BENCHMARKED WITH THE BEST INTERNATIONALLY WHILE DRAWING FROM OUR VERY OWN CORE ANCIENT INDIAN BEST PRACTICES SUCH AS THE GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA) & VALUES. THANKS TO ITS 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND ITS CORE CHILD DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES DRAWN FROM PIAGET, VYGOSTKY AND BRUNER – WHICH IS INCIDENTALLY THE RESOURCE POOL – FOR THE FOUNDATIONAL YEARS SCHOOL CURRICULUM OF THE UPGRADED NEW EDUCATION (NEP) UNDER ROLLOUT IN INDIA NOW.
So, in line with some of India’s top and the best globally, we are now a unique 100% Cambridge International School.
the Sixth Element School
the schoolchildren love
SOUTH CITY 1. TATA PRIMANTI (sector 72)
85272-74695 or 97736-32626
since 2004(20 years)
Limited enrollment available in pre-NURSERY, NURSERY, KG & DAYCARE, grade 1 now – in our prenursery to K12 school programs.
@ Gurgaon’s only single-section “exclusive” boutique VENTILATED, AIRY, SPACIOUS. GREEN SCHOOL CAMPUSES
