Handwriting

The key to learning is practice, practice, practice!

Keep to short sessions, to help your child maintain concentration without becoming bored or uncomfortable.

Make sure your child is sitting comfortably when they write, with their feet firmly on the floor.

Help your child to learn to grip the pen/pencil effectively, using a three-finger grip. This allows the fingers and wrist to move freely without putting pressure on the hand

When a dyslexic child is learning to write it’s important to be aware that a co-occurring condition such as Developmental Co-ordination Disorder or dyspraxia may also be present. For more information visit www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk. There are ergonomic products available which can help pupils who find holding a pen or pencil uncomfortable

For some pupils with dyslexia and/or dyspraxia the difficulties associated with handwriting can mean that the only way that they can achieve the speed of writing needed for success in the education system is to use a computer. If this is the case, then learning to touch type will be beneficial.

Resources

National Handwriting Association ‘The National Handwriting Association’ is a charity which aims to promote good practice in the teaching of handwriting and to support those who work with children with handwriting difficulties. Website: www.nha-handwriting.org.uk