It's National Handwriting Day and there's a bunch of buzz today about writing. For some children, the act of writing comes quite naturally. However, for others, it's a dreadful event that often ends in a standoff, tears and ultimately poor self-esteem. Many of our children are bright, have vivid imaginations and a lot to share, however, they just cannot get their thoughts down on paper. So, how do you know when your child could use the help of an occupational therapist?
Signs your child may need assistance from an occupational therapist to improve handwriting:
- Awkward pencil grasp
- Presses either too firmly or too lightly
- Changes hands, or hasn't chosen a hand dominance by the age of 5
- Works closely to the paper or tilts head
- Has trouble sitting still in the chair
- Writing is illegible
- Difficulty forming letters or forms segmented letters
- Misspelled words
- Slow to write
- Disorganization of work on page
- Poor spacing of letters and words
- Avoids written work, has trouble completing work
- Good oral skills, but cannot put it into writing
OTs have a multitude of tools and strategies to make learning handwriting fun!
 |
| Fundanoodle's Paper Promotes Success! |
 |
| Fundanoodle's MagnaStix provide a multisensory approach to learning the letters. |
 |
| "Story Starters" Hidden in Valentine Hearts help us get started! |
Ask an OT today how your child can be more successful with writing!
Michelle Yoder, OTR/L
No comments:
Post a Comment