Grip is important
because it allows the fine movement necessary for writing. The pencil
should be held 1/2 - 1 1/5 inches (1-3 cm) from the tip of the pencil
and the fingers need to be able to move individually.
Left-handed
writers:
It's recommended that left-handed writers grip the pencil 1 1/2 inches (3
cm) from the tip of the pencil to help the child see what has been written.
If the thumb, index finger and middle finger share holding the writing
implement, the child will find the writing position easy to maintain.
Problems
Teachers & Occupational Therapists see regularly:
- Middle
finger on top
- Thumb
over index finger
- Pencil
low in web-space
- Straight
thumb
- Thumb
& index finger parallel
What
can you do to help?
Children
should be encouraged to RELAX.
Remember,
pencil grip is one small element of the complex nature of handwriting.
Handwriting difficulties can cause low self-esteem, poor motivation for
class work and homework, and frustration. In addition to grip, handwriting
problems to keep an eye out for include:
- Slow at
completing writing tasks
- Heavy
pressure
- Poor spacing
and written organization
- Poor letter
formations and reversals
- Pain in
fingers, wrist and forearm
- Poor writing
posture
How
early is too early?
