Read and Spell Blog

When we write, we want the language we produce to be recognizable to others. Our handwriting should be legible so that it doesn't hinder the reader’s comprehension and our text must conform to established norms when it comes to punctuation, formatting and spelling.

But putting words down on paper is not as straightforward as it may seem. In fact, there’s a complex process of orthographic encoding that we rely on to help us form the letters in words and use them correctly.

If the mechanics involved in writing cause cognitive or physical strain, as is the case with most common handwriting problems, this can affect our thought process and reduce the complexity of our writing. It also results in feelings of frustration and low self-esteem.

For a child with dysgraphia or dyspraxia, conditions that often cause poor handwriting, producing written language is a struggle that can drastically affect performance at school and get in the way of a child expressing him or herself in writing.

Unfortunately, it's not uncommon to find that students who have specific learning difficulties, motor skills difficulties, and/or physical impairments experience a lack of confidence in the classroom. This is particularly the case when learning differences go unrecognized. The resulting situation is quite serious for children and young-adults. It colors their lives and can have significant implications for success at school, both in the present, and in the future. Fortunately, parents and teachers can make a difference by fostering a positive self-image, encouraging independence, and helping students who are struggling to get the right support and classroom accommodations.