How Writing on Paper Helps Boost Brain Activity

Schools are becoming more and more focussed on integrating technology with classroom learning. Typing on a keyboard is one of the fastest methods of taking notes, but it just doesn’t feel the same as writing on paper.

That’s because taking notes or writing by hand stimulates much more of the brain than typing does. In fact, a 2014 study showed that students who typed notes failed to comprehend and apply concepts as well as students who took notes by hand.

At Cali & Caro, we understand that writing may not be everyone’s favorite task. But, we aim to empower all students to find joy in writing and unlock their full potential. First, let’s look at all the cool ways writing on paper helps boost brain activity!

Writing & Memory

Whilst it’s incredible what smartphones can do nowadays, you shouldn’t be throwing out the pens and paper just yet. A study from the University of Tokyo in 2021 revealed that writing on physical paper leads to increased brain activity, as well as improving memory. Researchers suggest that the unique, complex, spatial and tactile information associated with handwriting on paper is likely the cause of better memory.

The same study found that participants who carried out note-taking tasks on paper completed these 25% faster than those taking notes digitally. This is because those writing on paper could take notes in their own individual way, incorporating shapes and pen strokes.

According to research, humans forget 50% of new information an hour after learning it. This means that note-taking is only of benefit if it is revisited. Writing notes on paper allows you to take down information in a way that you will understand later on, as well as creating a connection between the information and your writing. Writing on paper is better for retaining information, even if typing is the faster means of recording it.

Writing on Paper & Fine Motor Skills

Those who struggle with handwriting - for example, many neurodivergent students - may rejoice in digital alternatives. Touchscreens and keyboards make, what was an arduous and grueling task, bearable and manageable. But, writing with pens on paper isn’t just great for improving learning and memory. 

Students with ASD may struggles with handwriting, since they may not possess fine motor skills to the same degree as a neurotypical student. This can lead to issues with legibility, and can impact how students organize their thoughts. It is believed that early intervention and regular handwriting exercises can support the development of fine motor skills, along with overall learning later in life.

Something as simple as hand exercises and learning correct grip can improve handwriting, and general motor skills.

Handwriting with Dyslexia

Dyslexia refers to a grouping of symptoms, which has an impact on a person’s language skills – particularly reading. The most prominent challenges are around word recognition and reading fluency, spelling, and writing. Struggles around writing on paper are unsurprising, since reading is thought to be a key component of learning to write.

Research suggests that cursive handwriting can actually help students with dyslexia’s ability to read and write. This is because, typically, a dyslexic student would struggle to make connections in their brain between sounds and letters. Cursive writing involves muscle memory, fine motor skills, and a whole host of other brain and memory activities that help create these connections.

Helpful Writing Activities

Since writing on paper has been proven to be beneficial for boosting brain activity, we’ve laid out some cool activities to promote this. These can be done in the classroom or at home, and can even be made into fun games! Grab some pens and a beautiful notebook especially for these activities, so there’s a dedicated space for them.

Free writing

This is writing without structure. Students can practice writing a stream of consciousness, which is great for self-expression. It also means they can go at their own pace, and don’t necessarily have to make sense.

Writing to Music

Writing on paper to music, particularly calm music, helps to soothe writers and create a low pressure environment. 

Short Sessions 

Writing practice should be short and sweet, and can be interwoven into lessons or other activities. This way, it is more incidental and can act as a great brain boost for other activities in class.

Hand Exercises

Writing is a lot to do with grip. Playing with things like play dough is great for building muscle and grip in the hands, readying students for writing by hand.

Cali & Caro Supports Writing on Paper

At Cali & Caro, we offer a diverse and thoughtfully designed range of products to empower all types of brains, both in school and beyond. With writing on paper having so many amazing benefits, why not get your hands on some trendy and unique stationery and desk supplies?

Put the fun back into writing with a tactile pencil case, or some cool iridescent pen holders? Explore our online shop today, and get ready to write!