Handwriting help- Kindergarten

[Anonymous]

My DC has a lot of difficulties with handwriting- reversals, forming the letters correctly, making the letters the appropriate size. She is very verbal and is learning to read on grade level (K). She isn't formally diagnosed with a special need or learning disability, but I was hoping that those on this forum may know of some good resources to help her. She hates writing because of her struggles, and I don't know how to help her. I'm also not sure if this is appropriately developmental, since she is in K, or portends a real problem.

[Anonymous]

I think that's pretty normal for K student. Have you talked to her teacher? My son is in first grade this year and reads at a 3rd grade level but his handwriting is TERRIBLE. His teacher is working with a few specific kids on handwriting now and it's helped tremendously. Start with the teacher first.

[Anonymous]

You can try a few sessions with OT. We do the Kumon workbooks and dry erase cards as well as other books. Its generally all about practice. My 5 year old doesn't have the best handwriting either.

[Anonymous]

I volunteer twice a week in my son's kindergarten class for writers workshop. What you're describing sounds completely typical (including the frustration with not being good at it yet) from what I've seen.

[Anonymous]

If you were to go to an Occupational Therapist they would probably do the handwriting without years program. You can go online and buy the first grade book, little pencils, chalkboard and little chalk sticks and work with her this summer. Many k teachers no longer teach how to form letters correctly. I was a teacher and was never taught anything about penmanship.

[Anonymous]

OP here- at an earlier conference, she said she was concerned about reversals but didn't give any specifics to help. Her writing expectations seem to be very high based on what my DC says, but it's hard for me to tell what is age appropriate.

I'll ask her again at the upcoming conference for specific recs, especially over the summer. I was just wondering if people had any luck at home with exercises for reversals or kids who are discouraged about their writing.

[Anonymous]

Thanks, everyone, for your suggestions and support. I think I will try handwriting without tears for the summer.

[Anonymous]

I see someone suggested Handwriting without Tears. It is a really good option and from what you mention, it seems like it will address your concerns. I even used it with my youngest who had no issues, but was jealous of her brothers' workbooks.

[Anonymous]

My kid's K teacher said that reversals are still common at this age and aren't anything to worry about. I think the acceptable range at this age is pretty broad.

[Anonymous]

I would also encourage her to work with clay or sculpey over the summer (not play dough) because it will develop strength in her hands. Make it fun, she can make things out of drying clay then paint it another day. Playdough will be too easy for her and clay seems more mature, which they tend to like.
And over the summer have her writing things that are real not just for practice. So she can make a short shopping list that you dictate (and don't correct her, you'll remember that 'lms' is limes, etc.) That way she'll see that writing is important not just school work she doesn't like.

[Anonymous]

I talked to our future school and they said it's common until grade 2, so I wouldn't worry about it, but I would try to help my kid with it. Can you encourage her to write more? Like makes lists of weekend activities, snacks to get at store, make up your own "books," etc.? My son loves to do these kinds of projects, even if it isn't always legible.

[Anonymous]

I personally would go to an OT as well. Especially when kids start to develop self esteem issues bc they don't think they are good at it. The OT makes it fun. I have done Hnadwriting without Tears at home, but trust me, there are tears. His confidence was so low that he resisted my every attempt. The OT plays games with him, works on hand and arm strength and then gets him to write.

Good luck. It should get better with practice and building her self confidence!

[Anonymous]

OP again- thanks, everyone for all your suggestions! I will definitely work on them. I'm sure she will love to work with clay.

[Anonymous]

We worked with Christine Cridland in Alexandria VA - very helpful!