Occupational Therapist Marnie Danielson co-authored the handwriting instruction The TV Teacher instruction using evidence based practice of video modeling¹ along with movement based understanding of letter formation (Chandler, C. 2014). The TV Teacher ™ DVD based program includes an introduction to upper, lower case letters, numbers, strokes, shapes and scenes, gross/fine motor skills, attention and additional handwriting neatness instruction.

A  TV Teacher : writing abc’s lower case app  for iPad (free/4.99) is available to support the video modeling based handwriting program for ages 2-7 year olds. The free version provides an instruction of letters a-d with full paid version providing complete lower case instruction. A view of components of the app show:

The TV Teacher app provides video modeling instruction, opportunity to practice letters out of order, practice to draw letters and also draw pictures along with phonic instruction. Rhythmic chant for each letter, two levels of practice- one with structured instruction with dots and arrows for letter formation and unstructured practice of writing letters and drawing. Colored lines options are available for drawing.

The TV Teacher website provides an extensive listing of the video modeling studies supporting the visual method of instruction. In addition, research performed by Catherine Candler, Ph.D, OTR, BCP, “Embedding Video-Based Modeling Handwriting Instruction in a Montessori Preschool Phonics Program” ²  found positive outcomes for preschool children  who had access to the videos in a Montessori Classroom. Whereas studies show positive outcomes for skill development of students with disability, the study mentioned showed positive results for all children having access to programming with video modeling.

This program is exciting as an integrated handwriting program for preschool to primary aged students using a variety of evidenced based practices.

What is your experience with this program in inclusive or individual programming intervention?

More to consider for your OT or teaching tool kit.

Carol

References:

¹ Bellini, S. & Akullian J.(2007). A Meta-Analysis of Video Modeling and Video Self-Modeling Interventions for Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Council for Exceptional Children, 73, 264-287

² Catherine Candler Ph.D, OTR, BCP, Abbey Mulder OTR & Karen Nall OTR (2014) Embedding Video-Based Modeling Handwriting Instruction in a Montessori Preschool Phonics Program, Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 7:2, 151-160, DOI:10.1080/19411243.2014.930618