This series provides for a different outlook towards learning printing and cursive in an effort to eliminate the continuing problem of illegible handwriting. The Peterson approach revolves around the idea that letters (and numbers) are comprised of a series of movements, rather than a “picture” to be memorized and duplicated. The program works to teach the art of handwriting through a pattern of rhythmic movements reinforced by reciting either a series of action words (hook around, tall down for a lowercase print “d” for example) or counting the number or strokes per letter/number. The fluency and legibility of the student’s writing improves as the child learns to write with increasing rhythm. The Peterson approach is also very specific on the proper pencil, paper, and sitting position necessary to achieve legible handwriting. Instructions for these “correct” positions are found in the teacher handbooks, and self adhesive position guides are additionally available to promote correct paper placement.

The Peterson Directed Handwriting program provides instruction and material for those just learning how to print to those who wish to improve upon their current handwriting skills. At the preschool and kindergarten level, the capital and lowercase letters and numbers are introduced. The first grade level continues to instruct on the proper formation of vertical print letters while slant print and cursive are introduced at the second grade level. Grade Three focuses on continuing the transition from print to cursive, and cursive is then practiced in the remaining upper levels. There are 36 weeks worth of lesson plans available for each grade.

All of the Peterson Homeschool Handwriting Basic kits include: 1 student book, 1 teacher’s handbook, and 2 position guides. Additionally, the kits for preschool through third grade include two specially designed triangular pencils, while the fourth grade and advanced kits include a pen. As the student books (with the exception of the kindergarten student book) are not meant to be written in, additional practice paper will be necessary. Although any lined paper will work, the reproducibles (over 50 for each level) offered may be beneficial (particularly at the lower grade levels) as each sheet has paper position arrows on them for correct paper placement. Student books, teacher books, and position guides can be purchased separately if additional copies are needed. The complete handwriting kits also include the Pencil Song/Position Concepts cassette and the Animated Letter Cards CD, both of which are also available separately and are listed below.

Extra material that is also offered as part of the Peterson Directed Handwriting program includes self adhesive desk strips, an animated CD-ROM, adult kits, Shirley’s Books, and Word Masters. The Animated Letter Cards CD allows for the student to familiarize himself with and recognize the rhythm of each particular letter. The CD contains animations for vertical print, slant print, and cursive and at two speeds. Although a web browser is needed to play the CD, internet connection is not necessary. The Adult Remediation “Self-Improvement” Kits are geared towards providing extra practice for adults and older students. Part 1 targets baseline joining and 18 lowercase letter patterns. Part 2 concentrates on irregular joining, the lowercase letter patterns not covered in part 1, and capital letters. ~ Enh