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.

If your child has difficulty with handwriting please take a look at our Handwriting Without Tears program and or our HOW TO GET STARTED page to see how we can help you.