1. Provide a Model
When specifically working on the motor piece of handwriting, I like to ensure my students have a model to copy from. That allows them to focus on things like letter sizing, spacing and line adherence instead of thinking about how to form a letter or how to organize their thoughts. We usually complete a graphic organizer before the handwriting task, so the student is set up for success.
2. Use a Spacer
Spacing between words can greatly impact legibility. Try using a spacer with your students. A spacer can be anything, even just a simple popsicle stick or your finger. This gives a very specific visual cue of where one word should stop and the next should begin. They may not work for every student, but it could be worth a try!
3. Check Desk and Chair Fit
Positioning and set up can greatly impact a student’s handwriting legibility. Make sure the child’s feet are stable on the floor, and the desk is not too tall. Providing this stability can help promote motor control, which in turn positively impacts handwriting.
4. Consider the Writing Space
Sometimes a larger writing space can be helpful for students who are still working on motor control. Additionally, if a student is working on writing letters on the line, making the baseline bold can be helpful to draw attention to it. I have also found that highlighting the space between the midline and the baseline can be helpful for letter sizing and line adhernece.
5. Consider the Big Picture
Because handwriting is such a complicated task, be sure to consult with your OT, who will be able to assess your student’s specific needs. Additionally, I like to encourage my teams to look at the overall big picture of the impact of handwriting legibility on the child’s ability to participate in activities across settings. In addition to specific interventions, adaptations and modifications to the student’s work may be helpful. Also, a team may decide that at some point, looking into alternative options such as technology may be more efficient and independent for the student, especially for longer assignments. I find that keeping the big picture in mind and incorporating a variety of strategies into the plan leads to increased independence and success for students.
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2 Responses
What about writing cursive instead of block/print writing? I’m an autistic adult with developmental coordination disorder and I went to elementary school when cursive was required. Years later I have returned to cursive writing and I’ve noticed an improvement in legibility, including no longer “running out of space” with a word at the side edge of the paper.
Great suggestion!