Demystifying Dysgraphia

At our center we often see problematic and challenging behaviors in children that are often signs of other underlying conditions. Dysgraphia can be one of those things. In simple terms, dysgraphia is the inability, or significant difficulty in writing and copying. In more complex terms it is a deficit of visual to motor (or hand to eye) coordination and integration. 

What does this look like in a child? It can appear as any number of things –some physical and some emotional. 

Here is a small list of possible symptoms:

• poor muscle strength
• abundant flexibility
• difficulty in copying letters and words down on paper
• sloppy handwriting
• difficulty get words on paper
• pain while writing
• trouble finishing homework
• inconsistent grades

Dysgraphia is highly frustrating to all children who wrestle with it. But it can be even more disruptive for a gifted child who thinks at light speed and has big ideas that they just can’t seem to get out on paper. Their brains are highly functioning yet they feel inwardly trapped unable to efficiently translate what they need to express. Because knowledge and mastery in the school system is tested mostly by written exams and papers, dysgraphia can be crippling even to the brightest student.  These students often respond to this stunting difficulty by having emotional breakdowns or refusing to write all together.

If you suspect your child might be experiencing dysgraphia, it’s important to get them tested and properly diagnosed. An occupational therapist can help. This way, you will have factual information to present to your child’s teacher. Then you can create a learning plan that is conducive to your child’s overall well being. Accommodating a child with dysgraphia might mean letting them use a keyboard for writing rather than pen or pencil. At home it might mean letting your child dictate to you. There are also different types of voice recognition software on the market right now, which also prove helpful.

The key in battling dysgraphia is to help your child become an “author” rather than a writer. They have great thoughts and the goal is to help them “tell” their story and get it on paper or computer. Accommodating the writing weakness is key, while also helping them to develop these skills and understanding that we all have strengths and weaknesses. Being aware of our issues and accepting them, is often the biggest challenge.

Dan Peters, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and co-founder of the Summit Center, which provides educational and psychological assessments, consultations, and treatment for children, their parents, and families. Summit Center works with all kids, including those who are gifted, those with learning challenges, and those who are both gifted and have challenges.