Persistent handwriting problems are hard to predict: A longitudinal study of the development of handwriting in primary school

Abstract

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The Effects of Number and Separation of Support Lines on the Size, Velocity, and Smoothness of Handwriting

“…In this respect, unsatisfactory is a more neutral term, and is meant to indicate current handwriting quality relative to an age-specific norm. In previous work we showed that unsatisfactory handwriting at a younger age does not necessarily result in handwriting problems at an older age (Duiser et al, 2020). Second, in DSM-IV dysgraphic, handwriting is no longer presented (Biotteau et al, 2019).…”

“…Finally, it must also be pointed out that we distinguished satisfactory and unsatisfactory handwriting in children that are still at learning stage, but do not necessarily have satisfactory and unsatisfactory developmental outcomes (Duiser et al, 2020). This may reduce generalizability of the findings.…”

“…Thus, while the presence of at least two lines reduced, as expected, the size of the letters and writing velocity, it unexpectedly reduced, the smoothness in both groups. It has been suggested that due to ongoing development of handwriting in children of this age, the produced handwriting is relatively instable (Duiser et al, 2020). This not only results in large interindividual and intraindividual differences in children's handwriting, but may also obscure systematic effects of manipulating support lines on handwriting characteristics, if any.…”

“…It is therefore a matter of concern that a considerable number of children show unsatisfactory or dysgraphic handwriting. 1 For example, about one out of three Dutch children are found to show low quality and/or velocity of writing after 1 and 2 years of handwriting tuition (Duiser et al, 2014(Duiser et al, , 2020Overvelde & Hulstijn, 2011). In fact, some students are referred to pediatric physical or occupational therapists because their handwriting is considered problematic (Bosga-Stork et al, 2009;Jongmans et al, 2003).…”

Teachers’ Perceptions of Handwriting Legibility Versus the German Systematic Screening for Motoric-Handwriting Difficulties (SEMS)

“…Grade 2 and Grade 4 students were chosen for several reasons. Adequate proficiency can only be expected with enough practice (Duiser et al, 2020), with handwriting stability expected within the second half of Grade 3 (Overvelde & Hulstijn, 2011). Furthermore, in Bavaria, teachers accompany their classes for 2 years: Grades 1 to 2 and then Grades 3 to 4.…”