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Handwriting Without Tears
Handwriting Without Tears has earned a strong reputation among both homeschooling families and classroom teachers for its gentle, effective approach to teaching penmanship. Here's what parents and educators are saying about this multisensory handwriting program:
The Good: Why Parents Love It
Parents consistently praise how HWT makes handwriting practice approachable and stress-free for children who might otherwise struggle:
"My son on the autism spectrum had a very difficult time with handwriting... Handwriting Without Tears enabled him to develop completely normal handwriting skills." Parent of child with autism - TheHomeSchoolMom
The program's multisensory approach helps engage children with different learning styles:
"We have enjoyed the hands-on tools (chalkboard, letter shapes, audio CD). The little ones loved the songs too!" Homeschool parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
Many parents appreciate that lessons are short and manageable, preventing burnout:
"Children are not overwhelmed – short, easy lessons; very fun." Homeschool parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
Even reluctant writers often show significant improvement with HWT's structured approach:
"My daughter wasn't thrilled about it and jokingly called it 'Handwriting with Tears,' but her handwriting improved immensely." 2nd grade parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
Parents also love how easy the program is to implement, requiring minimal preparation:
"The workbooks are very self-explanatory, and your student can be very independent after you ensure they understand how to form the letters properly." Hummingbird Homeschool
The affordability of the program makes it accessible for many families:
"VERY affordable! No teacher book needed." Homeschool parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
The Challenges: What Parents Caution
While most feedback is positive, parents have noted a few potential drawbacks:
The unique two-line paper format used in HWT workbooks can create transition issues:
"The cons are that any worksheets from other sources don't have HWT's double lines, and she struggles with her letter formation a little." Homeschool parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
Some parents note that the simplified letter styles (especially cursive) look different from traditional penmanship:
"We are just finishing 2nd grade cursive and it can look a little funny but she has done well with it." 2nd grade parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
While the basic workbooks are inexpensive, parents sometimes feel compelled to purchase additional manipulatives:
"I might just have to invest in some of these other things." Homeschool parent after seeing HWT materials at a conference - TheHomeSchoolMom
A few parents mention that the program focuses solely on handwriting mechanics rather than meaningful content:
"Not everything is phonetically correct." Kindergarten parent - TheHomeSchoolMom
Who Thrives With Handwriting Without Tears?
Based on parent feedback, HWT works especially well for:
- Children with special needs, including autism, dysgraphia, or fine motor delays
- Kinesthetic and tactile learners who benefit from hands-on approaches
- Students who have struggled with other handwriting programs
- Young children just beginning to learn letter formation
- Left-handed writers (who benefit from the vertical, no-slant style)
The program may be less ideal for:
- Families wanting traditional, ornate cursive styles
- Children who need handwriting practice integrated with literature or meaningful content
- Students who are already proficient in handwriting and need minimal guidance
The Bottom Line
Parents overwhelmingly recommend Handwriting Without Tears for its gentle, effective approach. The structured, multisensory methods and clear progression have helped countless children develop neat, legible handwriting without frustration. While some families supplement with more meaningful copywork once letter formation is mastered, HWT provides an excellent foundation that lives up to its promise of tear-free handwriting instruction.
"Of all the handwriting programs you have to choose... this one tops the cake." Hummingbird Homeschool
Subjects covered
Core subjects covered: Handwriting skills (print manuscript to cursive writing), capital and lowercase letter formation, number writing, colors, shapes, proper pencil grip
Additional topics: Basic language arts practice (writing words and sentences with proper spacing and punctuation)
Special emphasis areas: Multisensory learning, developmentally appropriate sequence, structured approach for special needs and struggling writers
Teaching Format
Print-based: Predominantly print-based with consumable student workbooks and accompanying teacher’s guides for each level
Lesson structure: Short, simple lessons (5–15 minutes) consisting of modeling a letter or skill followed by student practice
Implementation flexibility:
- Homeschool use with hands-on activities and workbook pages
- Classroom settings with integrated print and digital solutions for group instruction
Assessment approach: Focus on penmanship improvement; no formal assessments mentioned
Multisensory methods: Uses hands-on tools (e.g., chalkboards, wooden pieces, music) to engage different learning styles
Teacher support: Clear instructions in student workbooks allow for minimal preparation and independent student work after initial guidance
Pricing
Pricing: Handwriting Without Tears is generally considered budget-friendly.
Student workbooks: Cost roughly $8–$12 each depending on the level and retailer.
Teacher’s guides: Similar price range per guide, available as a one-time purchase.
Optional manipulatives and accessories: Sold separately, can enhance the learning experience but are not strictly necessary.
Cost-saving options: Many families find you can do the program with just the workbooks and use homemade alternatives for some manipulatives if budget is a concern.
Free resources: Some free resources online (like printable paper and sample lessons) are available to supplement purchased materials.
Overall cost model: Operates on a one-time purchase model for materials rather than a subscription; no recurring fees to use HWT in print form.
Parent Involvement
Moderate involvement required
Daily responsibilities: Parents demonstrate letters or tasks, especially in early levels, and monitor student progress
Preparation: Minimal preparation needed; instructions in student workbooks are clear
Teaching requirements: Initial guidance important for correct letter formation; students can practice independently after understanding
Assessment duties: Parents check completed pages, offer praise or correction, and ensure students do not develop bad habits
