One item that has helped our homeschool is the erasable pen. Last year I heard a lecture by Andrew Pudewa , on how to get reluctant little boys to write. One of the most valuable things I learned was that pencils can make it difficult for children to write. He explained that pencils change as you write with them. You might start writing with a fine tipped, sharpened pencil, but by the end of the paragraph you have a dull, smudgy pencil. This change can frustrate many children as well as cause them to get up from their seat 100 times to sharpen their pencils.
We solved this problem in our house by purchasing erasable pens
. These pens cost about $12 for two dozen on Amazon, although I am sure you can find them cheaper at your local store. The pen last for several months and they erase well.
When your child uses a pen, the force they exert to make marks on the paper is very consistent, unlike with a pencil. I chose erasable pens because my kids do not like to make mistakes or scratch things out. With my younger children (who don’t care about those things) we use washable markers.
Angi says
I remember using erasable pens back in middle school myself! LOL They were “new” to the world. What fun! Glad you found something that will work. Can you tell me, what is that workbook he’s working in? I tried to squint to see if I saw any “name brand” information on the bottom of the pages, but nope. Do tell. Have a great weekend.
Amy says
Oh wow! I had never thought of this, but it makes total sense to me. I like writing with pencils but get so frustrated because of the *change*. My 10yo daughter always wants to use a pen, but I remember not being *allowed* to use pens until Jr High when I was growing up. Maybe it’s time to break that mind-set and allow her to use pens during her lessons.
I remember when erasable pens first came out. The ink smeared awfully bad. I’m sure things have changed in these past uuummmm 25 years. lol
I think I need to try this with my daughter. I know she’ll be happy.
Rusheika says
that is a GREAT suggestion! Thanks for sharing!
Angel Beers says
My oldest is the same…..so I bought mechanical pencils. (Math class is a no pen class rule) Didn’t do a price comparison but would that be an option for yall? Curious. Take care.
Tiffany says
This is a brilliant idea! Thanks!
Laura @ Homemaking Joyfully says
This is genius!! I have just added them to my list! Thank you SO much for sharing!
Kate Billson says
I love this idea! My children are FOREVER resharpening their pencils and it makes me a little bit crazy listening to the pencil sharpener going all afternoon. This is a perfect solution! Mechanical pencils stay fairly consistent as far as point goes, but getting the length of the lead right creates a constant distraction as well.
Anne says
Thanks so much for this! Awesome idea 🙂
Netta says
Oh, thank you! I’ve never thought of the pencil being so
frustrating… but of course it is… no wonder parents always use pens.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention!
The Country Belle says
We use Pudewa’s course, too. Thanks for the great suggestion! I totally forgot about erasable pens.
MarshaMarshaMarsha says
We have used erasable pens in the past but stopped at some point. I think it’s time to reinvest in that simple tool. The physical task of writing is still such an issue for us with one child… I’m willing to try any little thing that helps!
Judy says
That is a great idea. I am definitely going to pick some up next time I am out. I find it frustrating that once we get into a flow of school the kids start with the up and down with sharpening pencils.
Just curious….what book is your son using in the picture?
Rebecca says
I am having a hard time finding erasable pens, I would love to do this but can’t find the pens anymore!
TheHappyHousewife says
They are available on Amazon.com if you can’t find them at the office supply store.
JenniferF says
Great idea! Do the pens smudge though? I remember when way back when erasable pens were the new thing and they would smudge as my hand would go across them…I’m left handed by the way and noticed your son is too.
As others mentioned, I would love to know the workbook too.
Stephanie in SC says
It looks familiar..the workbook…is it SpellWell? It’s been a while..youngest is 14, so…