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How do I know is my ds5 is ready for copywork in LHFHG?

We're doing LHTH right now as well as Teach your child to read in 100 Easy Lessons. He can do the reading lessons, painstakingly, slowly sounding out the words, but he can do it, and he's getting better. We're doing the writing letters section at the end of each lesson and he does those well too, when he applies himself. Mostly the trouble is, he does not like to do it. Not just that lesson, but most school work, he complains and would rather play. So, I'm working on those issues, but his lack of willingness makes it hard to judge his ability. I know he recognizes all letters. I've given him basic instructions in letter formation as well. But often, when he writes, he has to play games (like rocket with the pencil) and makes the letter funny looking to be silly. He is active and not advanced in fine motor skills. When I threaten, he can make nice looking letters, otherwise, he is goofing off.

SO, when starting LHFHG next spring, I don't know whether to pick the Reason for Handwriting K or A. We'll be doing the K science and K math books, But not sure if that matters in relation to his writing ability. I, personally, really like the format of the Reason workbooks with the border pages in the back to be passed out with completed copywork. I would like ds to do this, (the K book isn't copywork, just letters, albiet proper formation thereof) but these workbooks are not used in future guides, that I know of, making this my chance if he's ready.

Not sure if he is really ready for that. He makes all his letters in the LHTH activities with little help from me.

Any advice?
Thanks.

I think if he can form all of his letters neatly, then he could start at least some copywork. Maybe only a word or two at a time...such as his full name, address, town, phone number...you will be able to increase the amount of copywork over time as he improves on his speed and legibility.

My son sometimes does this on his own...I've 'caught' him copying from our marker board or from a paper his brother wrote...even though he can't read yet. I think this is an indication of readiness...but I'm sure others will be along who are more wise than I am in this area.

mamaduke,

Wiggly little boys often lag behind in writing readiness as opposed to reading readiness. So, it's not uncommon for your little fella to be learning to read and struggling to write. Those fine motor skills take awhile to catch up to the rest of their abilities.

While your little honey probably could do A Reason for Writing 'A', I'd err on the side of it being easy rather than hard. I think little ones need to feel successful and also need time on their side with their writing demands. So, I'd encourage you to put him in A Reason for Writing 'K'.

I also agree with inHisTiming that your little guy could do some simple copywork. This is already scheduled for you weekly in LHFHG. So, you'll also have that area covered as well. He'll be writing his name, address, colors, etc. just as inHisTiming mentioned.

Some little boys are ready to write earlier than others. We've had both kinds at our house. Just give your wiggly little one plenty of time and encouragement, and he'll eventually come along too!

Then, if you wanted to do "A Reason for Writing 'A' the next year along with Beyond, you could.

Blessings,
Carrie

Carrie,

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to me personally. Your explanation and direction to my copywork question encouraged me greatly and gave me relief to know which book to choose. I trust your experienced judgment and will use the "K" book with wiggly ds.

I did not know LHFHG included copywork in the guide, so that is perfect, right on. I didn't even think of that or see it in the week preview, so I'm so glad to know it. I think simple words like colors and address will ease him in gently to copywork. Thanks for knowing that!

I'll also thank you here for responding to my other posts today. I love coming home and seeing those notifications in my inbox! My3sons had a wonderful explanation of nature journaling that was so helpful in the link-to-post you provided. It is so awesome that you, the author, are willing to help us on this board with the curriculum choices. It is an extra special aspect of HOD: a personal touch.

Bless you and yours this NEW YEAR and always.

I thought you might want to that if you choose to use Reading Made Easy for your phonics program, you will find additional copywork. It starts out with just a word, then partial sentences, a single sentence and so on. At this point, at about Unit 17, my dd is doing copywork several days a week. I bought a story journal so that all her work would be kept together. She loves seeing her work all in one place and it is easy to chart her progress. With RME, your child is also encouraged to draw or trace pictures to go along with their copywork. My dd loves drawing so this is a great incentive for her to do her copywork.

Blessing,
Nancy