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It’s the holidays, let’s teach children to touch-type!
Should Children Learn to Touch-Type?
With the holidays here, it’s the perfect time for children to start learning touch typing. The great thing is, it can be done anywhere! All you need is a keyboard or tablet and just ten minutes of practice a day. A few minutes of consistent effort now can make a huge difference later. By the time school starts again, your child could already have a head start with homework and written assignments.
Why Touch Typing Matters
Touch typing is more than a digital skill,it’s a learning tool. For many children, especially those with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, or ADHD, typing can remove the frustration of handwriting and let ideas flow freely.
When children learn to type without looking at the keyboard, writing becomes faster, smoother, and far less stressful. They can focus on what they want to say rather than how to write it.
The Science Behind Touch Typing
Research shows that touch typing can improve reading, spelling, and writing fluency.
MIT researchers call this process “cognitive automaticity.”¹ Once typing becomes automatic—like riding a bike or driving a car, it frees up mental energy for creativity, problem-solving, and learning.
For children who struggle with handwriting or working memory, this is a game-changer.
How Touch Typing Helps Children with Learning Differences
Dyslexia: Typing supports spelling and visual memory.
Dysgraphia: Reduces handwriting stress and helps express ideas more clearly.
ADHD: Builds focus and rhythm through structured, short sessions.
Dyspraxia: Strengthens coordination in a low-pressure, repeatable way.
Recommended Typing Programs for Kids
Designed for learners of all ages, including children with dyslexia and other learning differences. Its multi-sensory approach makes learning intuitive and fun.
Created by specialists in dyslexia education, Nessy’s program uses games, characters, and positive reinforcement to help children build confidence and fluency.
You can see a lot more programs, many free, here.
Why Start During the Holidays?
Holidays offer the perfect opportunity to build new habits without school pressure. A short daily session, 10 minutes a day, is all it takes to see progress. Many parents find that by the new term, their children type faster, spell better, and approach writing with newfound confidence.
Want to Learn More?
Check out my full article on the benefits of touch typing and how it supports learners with dyslexia and dysgraphia.
This post is brought to you by Dyslexia A2Z, your go-to source for practical advice, resources, and strategies for supporting children with learning differences.
¹ Rauterberg, M. (1996). Cognitive automaticity and learning processes. MIT Media Laboratory.
