The Department of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Education, recently hosted the Handwriting Without Tears workshop, a three-day professional training leading to certification in handwriting. The event brought together educators, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech-language pathologists, all focused on strengthening the foundational skills that support learning success.
The Hon. Kim Wilson, JP, MP, Minister of Health, said, “This training underscores our continued commitment to supporting children’s learning and development from the earliest stages. Handwriting is more than just a motor skill, it’s a gateway to literacy, comprehension, and creative expression. By investing in professional development for our therapists and educators, we are ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.”
Led by international instructor Katrina Erickson, the sessions focused on helping children build the fine motor and literacy readiness skills that underpin strong handwriting, reading, and overall classroom success.
Even in a technology-driven world, handwriting remains fundamental to how children learn. Ms Erickson highlighted research showing that writing by hand engages areas of the brain tied to memory, comprehension, and creativity — connections that typing alone cannot replicate.
The workshop was coordinated by a dedicated cross-departmental committee including Holly Sinclair and Akilah Lapsley-Dyer, Occupational Therapists (Department of Health); Carmelita Trott, Education Officer for Early Childhood (Department of Education); Sakina Steede, Quality Assurance Officer (Department of Education); Sherri-Lee Bucci, Assistant Director of Early Childhood (Department of Education); and Teresa Woolridge, Coordinator for Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy Services (Department of Health).