Literacy & Dyslexia

Handwriting Therapy

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, especially since teachers frequently depend on written work to measure progress.

Occupational therapists can evaluate the underlying components that support 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 support the proper use of the arms, hands, head, and eyes.
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 letters 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.

Need more information?
A child’s inability to master handwriting skills could indicate a more serious problem such as a developmental or learning disability. If you have concerns and would like to have an occupational therapist evaluate your child and provide consultation, it may be appropriate to ask your child’s physician or other health professional for a referral.

Occupational therapists are trained in helping children with a broad range of issues in addition to the development of handwriting skills, including proper computer use, safe backpack use, and behavioral problems.

If you live in the Seattle area and have concerns about your child's hadnwriting skills, please feel free to call us at (206) 323-5770 and ask to speak with one of our occupational therapists or email speech@hsdc.org.