What is Dysgraphia?

Does your student struggle to write? Maybe their handwriting isn’t legible, or maybe they struggle to get their thoughts on paper. If this sounds familiar, they may have dysgraphia.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “dysgraphia is a neurological condition and learning difference in which someone has difficulty with writing for their age level. This can range from issues with the physical act of writing to issues with translating thoughts into written words.”

Students with dysgraphia may struggle to:

• Write legibly 
• Organize thoughts on paper
• Maintain consistent writing mechanics, such as spacing and letter formation

While dysgraphia can exist independently, it often co-occurs with dyslexia, another language-based learning difference. Understanding this overlap is crucial for parents and teachers working to support children with these challenges.

Dyslexia and Dysgraphia: Co-occurring Disorders

Though distinct, dyslexia and dysgraphia frequently co-occur. Dyslexia primarily affects reading and decoding skills, while dysgraphia impacts handwriting and written expression.

Children with both conditions may struggle not only with reading comprehension and fluency but also with writing down their thoughts clearly and efficiently.

This dual challenge can affect a student’s confidence and academic performance, as writing is a central part of the school experience.

Identifying and addressing both conditions is key to providing a supportive learning environment that meets the needs of children with learning differences. Early intervention in both reading and writing can significantly improve a child’s ability to succeed academically and emotionally.

How to Identify Dysgraphia: Early Signs in Children

Early identification of dysgraphia can make a significant difference in a child’s academic journey. Parents and teachers should be aware of signs that could indicate dysgraphia, especially in the elementary years when writing skills are developing.

Some early warning signs of dysgraphia include:

• Messy or illegible handwriting – Letters are often difficult to read, irregular in size, or poorly spaced.
  
• Trouble with letter formation – Children may struggle to form letters correctly or mix up similar-looking letters (like “b” and “d”)
  
• Slow writing speed – Tasks that involve writing can take significantly longer than they should.
  
• Difficulty with spelling and grammar – Children may have a hard time remembering spelling patterns, capitalization, punctuation, and sentence structure.
  
• Avoidance of writing tasks – A child who becomes frustrated or anxious when faced with writing assignments may be experiencing dysgraphia-related difficulties.
  
• Inconsistent use of uppercase and lowercase letters – This can be a sign that a child is struggling to grasp the mechanics of writing.

If these signs are present, it’s important for parents and teachers to take action. The earlier dysgraphia is addressed, the better the outcomes for the child.

Steps to Remediate Dysgraphia: What Parents and Teachers Can Do

Once dysgraphia is identified, there are several approaches that can help children develop their writing skills and overcome some of the difficulties they face. Parents and teachers can work together to create a comprehensive support plan that may include:

Classroom Accommodations

1. Extra Time for Written Assignments
   Children with dysgraphia often need more time to complete writing tasks due to the physical effort involved.
   
2. Alternate Forms of Assessment
   Allowing students to show their understanding through oral presentations, projects, or other non-written formats can reduce frustration and give a more accurate picture of their abilities.
   
3. Use  assistive technology
   Tools like speech-to-text software and typing programs can help students complete written tasks more efficiently without the physical strain of handwriting.
   
4. Break tasks into smaller steps
   For children with dysgraphia, writing a full paragraph or story can feel overwhelming. Breaking down assignments into manageable parts can help ease this anxiety.

Explicit Instruction in Writing Skills

1. Practice fine motor skills
   Activities like tracing, drawing, or using clay can help strengthen the muscles needed for writing.
   
2. Handwriting Instruction
   Structured programs that focus on letter formation, spacing, and consistency can improve handwriting over time.
   
3. Sentence and paragraph structure practice.
   Teaching children how to organize their thoughts into clear and concise writing can alleviate some of the challenges of written expression.

Ideas for Parents

Encourage creative writing activities
Allowing children to write freely about topics they enjoy can help build confidence without the pressure of perfect mechanics.

Use multi-sensory techniques
Writing letters in sand, shaving cream, or using tactile letter cards can make the process more engaging and help children connect the physical act of writing with the mental process.

Consider Occupational Therapy
For some children, occupational therapy can be helpful in improving fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are essential for legible handwriting.

Therapists can work one-on-one with children to strengthen these abilities and provide tailored strategies for success.

RELATED: Dyslexia and Occupational Therapy

Dysgraphia & Roberts Academy at Mercer University

Because dyslexia and dysgraphia often co-occur, our faculty is well-versed in the techniques and strategies used to remediate this learning difference. 

We are currently accepting applications for students in 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grade. Learn more about our application process.

Conclusion

Dysgraphia is a learning difference that often co-occurs with dyslexia, making writing a challenging task for children.

Early identification is crucial to help children overcome the struggles of dysgraphia and build confidence in their writing abilities.

By providing the right interventions and accommodations, both parents and teachers can help children with dysgraphia succeed in school and beyond.

Understanding that dysgraphia is not a reflection of a child’s intelligence or effort, but rather a neurological difference, allows for more empathetic and effective support. With the right strategies, every child can learn to express their ideas and thrive academically.