Product Review: Loops and Other Groups: A Kinesthetic Writing System

 When I first came across Loops and Other Groups by Mary Benbow, I was immediately drawn to its unique approach to teaching cursive. This manual is a lifesaver for any teacher or therapist looking for a fresh way to help students, especially those who struggle with traditional handwriting instruction.

What I Love About It:

• Catchy Phrases That Stick: One of the things I love most is the catchy phrases used to help students remember how to form letters. These phrases aren’t just memorable—they create mental pictures, making it easier for students to visualize exactly how each letter should look. This is especially great for “right-brained” kids who need to see things in their minds to remember them.

• Kinesthetic Learning at Its Best: This manual isn’t just about writing—it’s about movement. I’ve found that the kinesthetic focus really helps students internalize the motions needed for cursive. The physical repetition builds muscle memory, which is a game-changer for students who struggle with fine motor skills.

• Perfect for Struggling Writers: Whether you're working with kids who are new to cursive or students who’ve had trouble with handwriting for years, Loops and Other Groups makes cursive less intimidating. It’s structured in a way that helps students feel successful at every stage, and I’ve seen progress even in students who previously found writing overwhelming.

• Visual and Engaging: I can’t forget to mention how fun the book makes learning! The playful illustrations and imaginative way it presents each letter group keep students engaged and eager to learn. It turns writing into something creative, rather than just another task.

A Few Considerations:

• More for Educators: While this is a fantastic tool for teachers and therapists, parents might find it a bit too specialized if they’re just looking for something to casually teach their kids at home.

• Time Investment: This method does require consistent practice and teacher involvement, which can be tricky if you’re short on time. But honestly, I’ve found the results to be worth every minute.

If you're looking for a fun, effective, and memorable way to teach cursive, I can’t recommend Loops and Other Groups enough. The kinesthetic approach, combined with those catchy phrases, makes it accessible for all students, especially those who need a little extra support. It’s been a game-changer in my classroom!

Ready to give it a try? You can find Loops and Other Groups here and bring this amazing resource into your teaching routine.

Have you used Loops and Other Groups or any other kinesthetic writing systems? I'd love to hear how it worked for your students! Share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Together, we can make handwriting fun again!