Addressing handwriting difficulties in children from prekindergarten to grade 2 (January 16, 2024)

Presented by: Marina Scott, MS, OTR/L

Handwriting is one of the most frequent areas of concern brought up to occupational therapists in the school setting. Although there are calls for occupational therapists to support participation more fully in academic occupations (e.g., Skinner, 2021), occupational therapists are still being asked to address handwriting in schools to support academic participation and progress (e.g., Scheider et al., 2022). As an occupational therapist, how do we address these concerns? At what age are kids “too old” to work on improving their handwriting? This webinar aims to look at an occupational therapist's role in handwriting, how to address difficulties, and when to move on. A brief overview of the development of handwriting skills in young children will be provided. The webinar will discuss how to address handwriting skills in the classroom and areas to address as the child gets older.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Identify handwriting concerns in the classroom for prekindergarten to grade 2.
2. Identify ideas and strategies for therapy.
3. Understand the progression of handwriting throughout the early grades.

Level  Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area)

Area of practice Autism/Neurodiversity, Developmental Disability, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Pediatrics 

Client age group Children (5-12 years old)