What is Dysgraphia?

An Introduction to Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia: (Greek) dys = impaired   +   graphia = writing by hand

Dysgraphia is a processing disorder which results in problems with writing. There are five types of dysgraphia: Dyslexic, Motor, Spatial, Phonological, and Lexical. "In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), dysgraphia is characterized as a learning disability in the category of written expression when one’s writing skills are below those expected given a person’s age measured through intelligence and age appropriate education." -Wikipedia 

Symptoms of Dysgraphia

• A mixture of upper case/lower case letters
• Irregular letter sizes and shapes
• Unfinished letters
• Struggle to use writing as a communications tool
• Odd writing grip
• Many spelling mistakes (Sometimes)
• Decreased or increased speed of writing and copying
• Talks to self while writing
• General illegibility
• Reluctance or refusal to complete writing tasks
• Crying and stress (which can be created by the frustration with the task of writing and/or spelling. This can also be brought on in dysgraphic students by common environmental sources such as high levels of environmental noise and/or over-illumination).
• Experiencing physical pain in the hand and/or arm when writing
• Poor use of lines and spaces   -Handwriting Solutions

If you suspect your child might have dysgraphia here is more information about the subject and some ideas to help various age groups with this learning disability. An official diagnosis can only be given by a neuropsychologist or a neurologist. Mind the Children does not diagnose learning disabilities.