New research by STABILO, a leading provider of writing instruments, shows that nearly 80% of children have experienced some pain and discomfort while writing. The research was conducted over a 3 month period between November 2009 and January 2010 and involved 637 students who were between the ages of 10 and 29 years old.
From those who took part in the survey:
- 38% experienced pain when writing “at times”
- 12% experienced pain “often”
- 4% experienced pain “regularly”
Caroline Buggins, Marketing Manager at STABILO UK comments:
‘Learning to write can be very hard work for many children. In terms of motor skills it is a very demanding process and as a result tense writing posture, cramped hands, and inaccurate or illegible writing are issues well known by students, parents and teachers.’
‘This research highlights the importance of helping children to learn to write comfortably. With writing habits and patterns set in the early years of a child’s academic journey and the act of writing so closely linked to literacy, tailored handwriting activities and writing tools that are designed to alleviate discomfort and encourage optimum grip are in demand more than ever before. This is why STABILO has developed an ergonomic stationery range in collaboration with teachers, parents, children and scientists called the EASYergonomics Experts.’
The STABILO EASYergonomics Experts family includes:
A new interpretation of the fountain pen: an ergonomically designed rollerball. It is the first rollerball especially designed for left- and right-handers and is one of the 10 best pens for children.
Developed specially for all those who write often – with versions for left- and right-handers. The pen sits perfectly in the hand and ensures flowing writing with little pressure.
Innovative, ergonomic pen design – specially developed for children who are just starting to write. This retractable graphite pencil comes in 2 versions for left- and right-handed users. It also makes our list of the 6 best mechanical pencils for children.
The first ergonomic graphite pencil especially for left- and right-handers. Its triangular design and unique non-slip grip moulds ensure a relaxed hand posture.
The first ergonomic coloured pencil especially for left- and right-handers. Yellow or red colour coding at the end of the pencil indicates left- and right-handed versions.
Expert Opinion
The following appraisals were carried out by by Prof. Dr. Ralph Bruder Director of the Institute for Ergonomics and Design Research/University of Duisburg-Ess.
ERGONOMIC APPRAISAL OF THE STABILO EASYoriginal – Read full Article
“I can recommend the STABILO EASYoriginal from an ergonomic point of view.”
ERGONOMIC APPRAISAL OF THE STABILO EASYergo – Read full Article
“I can strongly recommend the STABILO EASYergo from an ergonomic point of view!”
ERGONOMIC APPRAISAL OF THE STABILO EASYcolors – Read Full Article
Editors Update 2019 these Articles are now no longer available online.
“As a scientist, I don’t hesitate to recommend STABILO EASYcolors. Parents make an excellent choice with this pencil, giving their children a great start to their school career!”
It seems common sense that pens and pencils that are ergonomically designed will help to ensure that they are more comfortable for our children to write with. Personally I think that it is a good thing that at least one manufacturer has put the time & effort into researching and developing ergonomic writing instruments for children.
As always we would love to hear if you have any thoughts on this, or maybe you have children who already use a product from the STABILO ergonomic range.
