Help in improving writing for my second grader.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Tips for when my first grader says his hand hurts? He loves coloring with crayons or markers, but writing with a pencil seems to make his hand cramp up. Think it's his grip or just a strength thing that will get better?

He might be gripping the pencil too hard. Maybe get one of those soft foam grips you can put on the pencil or pencils with the grips built in. Also, teach him some stretches for his hand.

[Anonymous]

Depends on the problem. If it's handwriting, people have some suggestions. If it's content, try separating the physical act of writing from the mental act. Have him dictate a story to you while you type, then have him illustrate it, like a book. Have him talk through a topic and help him create a simple outline before he starts writing. Also separate writing from correcting spelling mistakes, etc. Have him write whatever, and then edit, then re-write. It can get frustrating to be constantly corrected and can interrupt the flow of thinking.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My sons teacher is offering tutoring for $60 hr, so cheap. Want her details

Could you post the teacher's contact info?

[Anonymous]

In FCPS you are not allowed to tutor a kid you just had or will have next year. A kid whose handwriting stands out markedly from other kids at that age needs an evaluation right away. Look into OT testing. Handwriting without Tears is great. If you have little kids, teach them to make the letters correctly, not to "draw" them. It will matter later for many kids. For content at second grade, try whiteboards, fancy paper, different size pens and stickers - make it fun. Give the kid sticky notes that he/she can use for anything. Encourage the writing. Only provide an ice cream if the request is written - but make it fun like you only take written orders in your "restaurant." Don't stress the kid. Make it a point to mention as soon as school starts to the next teacher and the literacy/reading specialist.

[Anonymous]

You can download blank comic book panels or pages and then the kid writes in the text in the panels. No worry if it isn't spelled right - just make it fun, and you do it, too. Vary the seating and try clipboards. No electronics in the car - just clipboards and paper and pencils. Check grip strength - use putty or play-doh. Look online for ideas.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Depends on the problem. If it's handwriting, people have some suggestions. If it's content, try separating the physical act of writing from the mental act. Have him dictate a story to you while you type, then have him illustrate it, like a book. Have him talk through a topic and help him create a simple outline before he starts writing. Also separate writing from correcting spelling mistakes, etc. Have him write whatever, and then edit, then re-write. It can get frustrating to be constantly corrected and can interrupt the flow of thinking.

Great post.