Up to 10% of children have difficulty with handwriting, yet only 12% of teachers feel adequately trained to teach it. This week, we break down the six evidence-based principles (plus one essential bonus) that should guide all handwriting instruction and occupational therapy intervention. We examine why focusing on the occupation of writing outperforms a sensory-motor approach, how immediate feedback accelerates progress, and why explicit instruction matters so much. Plus, get a glimpse into how AI technologies like Kaligo and Psymark are revolutionizing how OTs, teachers, and families can collaborate to support children's handwriting development in the digital age.
We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the article too.
Bonneton-Botté, N., Miramand, L., Bailly, R., & Pons, C. (2023). Teaching and Rehabilitation of Handwriting for Children in the Digital Age: Issues and Challenges. Children, 10(7), 1096. https://doi.org/10.3390/children10071096
The article comes from this special issue on motor learning, handwriting, and dysgraphia. Check it out! https://www.mdpi.com/journal/children/special_issues/9F3723N2SM
KEYWORDS: Occupational therapy; OT; evidence based practice; OT ideas; Peds OT; pediatric occupational therapy; school based; handwriting; writing; penmanship; dysgraphia
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