Six handwriting tips : Accommodating a

learner with poor posture or low tone

How to identify poor posture or low tone: the learners’ seated posture at desk is slouched, holds head up with
hands when at desk, rest head on desk, fatigues easily, hands tire when doing long writing tasks, presses very
hard or very soft

1. Before a handwriting task, use a 4. Provide opportunities to draw or write on

wide range of
kinaesthetic/movement activities
to provide the necessary sensory
input (proprioception and
vestibular input) which may
include whole body (head in
different positions), upper arms
and finally hands and fingers.
Useful exercises include “wall
push-ups’.
2. Allow for improved ergonomic
seating at desk with desk and chair
at correct height with feet
supported on the floor or on a foot
block.
a vertical writing surface, in standing or
upright kneeling (ideally on a chalkboard or
white board, or paper stuck onto a wall).
This will help develop and activate postural
and shoulder stability muscles.
5. Discourage bad habits by checking the
learners overall seated posture and the angle
of paper on the desk as well as the alignment
of learner at the desk. A good reference point
is to ensure leaners pencil faces over his
shoulder of the writing hand.

3. Use a “heavy work” hand activity
programme and variety of multi-
sensory experiences to form
shapes, letters and numbers e.g.,
Plasticine or Thera putty.
6. Try the use of a wobble cushion (or hot
water bottle filled with tap water) that the
learner can sit on during writing activities to
help activate postural muscles.