Using a variety of formal assessments (Shore and Dash) and informal handwriting activities (multisensory writing, tactile activities) we will analyse a child’s handwriting and assess the underpinning reasons for handwriting difficulty.
Assessment may result in identification of a delay in motor skill development, postural instability or visual perceptual difficulties all of which significantly impact on a child’s ability to develop handwriting skills.
It is important that assessments look at the underpinning reasons a child is struggling to develop a specific skill. If a child has weak core muscles which are not addressed it is unlikely their handwriting skills will improve, however much handwriting practice they do.
It is the role of an Occupational Therapist to look at the functional skill difficulty and analyse the route cause, so that changes can be made to the underlying deficit to help develop solid foundations for the development of complex learning throughout life.