Educational Destiny

Interesting post by Perth Children's Occupational Therapist Association.

PENCIL GRASP - does it really matter?

We actually no longer consider the tripod grasp (i.e., the index finger positioned on the shaft of the pencil, in opposition to the thumb) to be the only effective grasp.

What we look for instead, is whether a grasp is FUNCTIONAL.
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That is:

• No pain

• Legible writing (though this is affected by other factors too)

• Ability to write for an age-appropriate amount of time without fatiguing

What assists in achieving each of these?

• Pencil movements that are driven by the thumb and fingers, rather than the wrist or elbow. This requires the wrist and elbow to be stabilised on the table. These “dynamic movements” are usually established by age 5-6.

• Having the ring and little fingers tucked into the palm of the hand
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• An open webspace between the thumb and index finger, forming a C-shape. ⠀

OTs are moving away from using pencil grips (moulded foam/plastic added to a pencil) if a grasp is functional. It may not look quite right to us - but it may well be functional.

When a grasp is problematic or inefficient, we look at remediation, such as hand strengthening activities, and accommodations, such as typing or allowing a child longer to complete written work.
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The importance of free play. Children can use their imagination which improves their oral language as well as their problem solving skills. Two soft skills that are considered essential in the workforce.