It uses ideas based on the mechanics of how a child's hand works. It is a fantastic program. It was written by an Occupational Therapist when her son had problems learning to write in first grade. I know the name of the profession is misleading. The next stage uses small bits of chalk and small wet sponges with a small slate board.
Kids love it.
You can take turns with the chalk and sponge. Next you go to the workbooks. It is the one program that I am completely satisfied with. It even had great ideas to correct my middle sons terrible pencil grip. I highly recommend it.