Dysgraphia - why is my child struggling to write?
Dysgraphia is a neurological condition that affects writing ability, making it difficult to form letters, organize thoughts on paper, and maintain consistent handwriting. Unlike general fine motor skill difficulties often addressed by occupational therapy, dysgraphia is a specific learning disability that involves challenges with both the physical act of writing and the cognitive processes required for written expression.
One key difference between dysgraphia and other handwriting issues is that dysgraphia often impacts spelling, sentence structure, and overall writing fluency. While an individual with weak fine motor skills may struggle with handwriting due to poor grip strength or hand coordination, someone with dysgraphia may also have difficulty recalling letter formations, spacing words correctly, and structuring coherent written responses. These difficulties can persist even with typing, as organizing thoughts and translating them into written language can be challenging.
A proper assessment for dysgraphia should include a comprehensive evaluation of:
Fine motor skills: Assessing grip strength, hand coordination, and motor planning to rule out purely motor-based difficulties.
Writing fluency and legibility: Examining letter formation, spacing, speed, and consistency in handwriting.
Spelling and written expression: Evaluating ability to spell words correctly, construct sentences, and organize thoughts into paragraphs.
Executive functioning: Analyzing how working memory, sequencing, and attention impact the writing process.
Cognitive and language skills: Identifying any underlying difficulties with language processing or processing speed contributing to writing struggles.
Early identification of dysgraphia is crucial to providing appropriate interventions, such as structured writing supports, assistive technology, and explicit instruction in written language skills. A well-rounded assessment ensures that individuals receive the right accommodations to support their writing development and overall academic success.
