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Handwriting Difficulties in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

  • Motor Disorders (P Wilson, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Handwriting is a particular difficulty in DCD. Children who struggle to produce legible and sufficiently fast handwriting may under-achieve at school. Using van Galen’s model, this review examines recent research to describe the nature of handwriting difficulties in DCD. The range of assessment tools is highlighted and recommendations for intervention provided.

Recent Findings

Embedded in the broader skill of writing, handwriting involves more than motor skill. Children with DCD tend to produce less writing than their peers. Their slow rate of production is characterised by frequent pauses. Errors in letter formation negatively impact on legibility and the quality of written composition is also poor. Different types of assessment help to capture the range of difficulties.

Summary

Comprehensive assessment helps gain a full understanding of the nature of handwriting difficulties in DCD. International recommendations and guidelines provide a valuable framework for assessment and principles for intervention.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Health & Professional Development, Oxford Brookes University, Headington Campus, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK

    Anna L. Barnett

  2. Division of Occupational Therapy, Brunel University London, London, UK

    Mellissa Prunty

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  1. Anna L. Barnett
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Correspondence to Anna L. Barnett.

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Conflict of Interest

Anna Barnett reports personal fees from Pearson Assessment outside the submitted work; and being co-author of Movement ABC-2 Test and Checklist, DASH (Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting) and DASH17+, all assessment instruments used in the field of DCD. Mellissa Prunty declares no conflicts of interest relevant to this manuscript.

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Barnett, A.L., Prunty, M. Handwriting Difficulties in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Curr Dev Disord Rep 8, 6–14 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-020-00216-8

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