* Educational system: Some countries introduce cursive writing earlier than others.
* Individual school policies: Some schools may introduce cursive in first grade, while others wait until second or third grade.
* Individual child's readiness: Some children are ready for cursive earlier than others, depending on their fine motor skills and handwriting development.
General trends suggest that children typically start learning cursive letters in first or second grade, around ages 6-8.
Here are some factors that influence the timing:
* Printing proficiency: Children should have a strong foundation in printing before moving on to cursive.
* Fine motor skills: Cursive requires more precise hand movements and coordination than printing, so children need to have developed these skills.
* Handwriting instruction: Schools and parents should provide structured instruction and practice to help children learn cursive effectively.
It's important to note that cursive is not always taught in schools anymore. Some educators argue that it is less important in a digital age, while others believe it offers benefits like improved fluency and handwriting skills.
Ultimately, the decision of when to teach cursive is best made by parents and educators in consultation with the child's individual needs and readiness.