Conquering the Odds of Handwriting

        Most children with autism attend special education class with an individualized curriculum. They may eventually be transitioned to attend regular school depending on their cognitive abilities and developmental progress in terms of behavior. One huge determinant if a child is ready to be mainstreamed to a regular class is his handwriting. Would he be capable of  copying what is written on the board; or answer written examinations? This is one common problem faced by a special learner in the traditional school setting in the Philippines.
        Handwriting is a complex fine motor skill that requires eye and hand coordination.
Delay in these areas of development is the exact reason why children with autism have difficulty learning to write. And even when they learn to write, it is not as fast as any typical children their age. This matter can be properly addressed during occupational therapy sessions. However, there are ways which we can help them further in our homes or some place else other than the therapy center.

• In the playground, let him climb up the monkey bars or climbing frame. This will help strengthen arm muscles. The muscles of the arm may not be directly involved in performing fine motor skills. However, a strong arm muscle may help them perform fine motor tasks with ease and sustain it for a longer period. 
• Watering plants in your home or garden. The act of lifting the watering can or pot will help tone arm muscle.
• Let your kid be your kitchen helper by asking him to mix like for instance the pancake batter.
• Initiate play by manipulating clothes pin, fastening it on a piece of cardboard or on anything creative and fun thing you can think of. 
• Let him crawl as he plays  IE: obstacle course, play tent or tunnels. 
• Coloring, or even scribbling.
• For children with artistic abilities, drawing and painting can be very engaging. 

        These are just a few ways how we can help our special learners conquer the odds of handwriting. It may take some time before they can actually learn to write legibly. As the saying goes, patience is a virtue.





Photo Credits:
  Pencil Writing on Paper by Lamnee
  Kid Playing by Photostock