What Educators Should Know

Kids with dysgraphia have a hard time writing letters and words clearly. They may have other learning challenges (such as dyslexia) that also can make reading hard.

By understanding their challenges and supporting their needs, educators can help students with dyslexia do their best in school.

Challenges for Students With Dysgraphia

Students with dysgraphia may have:

• writing neatly
• holding a pencil or other small object
• spelling
• reading
• writing down their thoughts

What Educators Can Do

Work with your student’s family to understand their needs and what will help them most:

• If your student has an IEP (individualized education plan) or 504 plan, use all modifications and accommodations.
• If available, have your student work with a speech and language therapist at school.
• If your student has other learning challenges (such as dyslexia), help them work on these too.
• To help with writing letters and words, your student can:
  • Use graph paper, wide-ruled paper, or paper with raised lines.
  • Choose the writing utensil they're most comfortable with (for example, a thicker pencil).
  • Choose the way they want to hold the writing utensil and any special pen/pencil grip (such as a silicone grip that positions their fingers in a certain way).
  • Record lessons so they can watch them again to give them more time to take notes. Or they can use note-taking computer programs or an outline made by the teacher or another student.
• For tests and assignments, you can let the student:
  • Speak their answers to you.
  • Speak their answers to a scribe.
  • Take extra time.
  • Type their assignments and test answers.
  • Use assistive devices (such as talk-to-text devices).
  • Take tests in a separate space.
  • Use a graphic organizer to help them plan a paper.
• Help build your student’s confidence by recognizing and appreciating their strengths — in math, sports, drama, art, or whatever else they enjoy.
• Provide support. If you think your student is feeling very anxious or down, talk to them and their family about counseling options in school or in the community. Some school districts don’t require parents’ permission for a student to see a counselor at school while others do. Check your local school district’s policies.