Handwriting 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 can provide clues to developmental problems that could hinder 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 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 eyes.
■ Measure the level of physical strength and endurance.
■ Analyze fine motor control, such as the ability to hold a writing utensil.
■ Determine visual and perceptual ability that influences a child’s ability to form letter and shapes using a writing utensil.
■ Help develop and evaluate handwriting curriculums and collaborate with teachers on effective strategies.
■ Suggest home activities that promote the development of skills needed in good handwriting.
What can parents and families do?
■ Encourage children to participate in sports and games that could 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 an activity that exercises the hands, such as cutting pie dough or pizza and using cookie cutters.
■ Encourage writing handwritten letters to grandparents and friends.
Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are trained in helping children with a broad range of issues in addition to the development of handwriting skills, such as proper computer use, proper backpack use and behavioral problems.
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