The benefits of calligraphy
Calligraphy builds a flexible,
steady inner core.
Beautiful handwriting and good posture. A calm mind and the confidence of “I did it!” Japanese calligraphy & handwriting (kakikata shodo) is about much more than neat writing.
We believe learning kakikata shodo is the ideal training for building what Kodomo School values most: the strength to live true to yourself. Below, we introduce what calligraphy builds in two parts: “visible skills” and “invisible strengths.”
Visible skills
Correct form and deep concentration
- Beautiful characters and correct form
Following Japan’s national curriculum guidelines, children learn the basic “forms”: correct stroke order, character shapes, posture and how to hold the brush. By carefully observing the model as they write, they learn to write well-balanced, beautiful characters. Beautiful handwriting is a treasure for life, and good posture is the basis for other learning and for daily life.
- Deep concentration
Observing the model closely and paying attention to each stroke. By repeating quiet moments of focusing on tome, hane and harai (the stops, hooks and sweeps of each stroke), children build a habit of deep focus that also helps with other studies and sports.
Invisible strengths
The strengths we most want to nurture
- Self-esteem (the confidence of “I did it!”)
The sense of achievement when “I did it!” and “I wrote it well!”, just like the model. Overcoming these small steps through their own effort builds a real confidence: “I’m okay” and “if I try, I can do it.”
- Perseverance and observation
“Perseverance” to face themselves quietly and practice again and again toward a goal (the model). “Observation” to calmly see where their writing differs from the model. These become an inner anchor that supports children when they face difficulties in the future.
- Calming the mind (relaxation)
The scent of ink is said to calm the mind and help concentration. It settles irritated feelings, and after finishing, the mind feels clear. This experience of “resetting the mind” also helps children learn to manage their own emotions.
For Kodomo School, calligraphy is not “a technique for neat writing.” It is a “way” (dō) itself: one that draws out children’s invisible strengths and builds the confidence to live true to themselves.
One stroke at a time, carefully.
When you finish, your mind feels clear!
Start with a free trial lesson
Soroban and calligraphy trial lessons are free (about 20 minutes; just bring something to write with). The art trial lesson is 40 minutes and costs ¥1,000 (nothing to bring). Come with your child and see the feel of the classroom and how well the teacher suits your child.