Handwriting

January 28, 2008 9:14 PM

The ability to write legibly and with appropriate speed and accuracy is a complex process of managing written language by coordinating the eyes, arms, hands, pencil grip, letter formation, and body posture. The development of a child's handwriting skills provides invaluable insight into deeper developmental problems that could hinder, among other things, a child's learning because teachers depend on written work to measure how well a child is learning.

Occupational therapists can evaluate the underlying components that work together to support a student's handwriting, such as muscle strength, endurance, coordination, and motor control, and parents can encourage activities at home to support good handwriting skills.

What can an occupational therapist do?

  • Demonstrate proper posture to supports the proper use of the arms, hands, head, and yes.
  • Measure the level of physical strength and endurance.
  • Analyze fine motor control, such as the ability to hold a writing utensil with the proper force.
  • Determine visual and perceptual ability that influences a child's ability to form letter and shapes using a writing utensil.
  • Help evaluate and modify handwriting curriculums and collaborate with teachers on effective strategies.
  • Suggest home activities that promote the development of skills needed for good handwriting.

What can parents and families do?

  • Encourage children to participate in sports and games that improve visual, motor, and coordination skills, such as playing ball, jacks, marbles, and outdoor sports.
  • Require children and teens to use silverware when eating to develop hand grip.
  • Provide activities that exercise the hands, such as kneading pie or pizza dough and using cookie cutters.
  • Encourage writing handwritten letters to grandparents and friends.

(Adapted from www.aota.org)