Writing difficulties

Writing is a complex skill. It involves many smaller skills like holding a pencil, forming letters, spelling, and organising ideas. Many children learn to write easily, but some have a hard time. Children with writing difficulties can struggle with the physical act of writing or with expressing their thoughts in writing, or both. These problems are not due to low intelligence, lack of effort, or poor teaching. They may be caused by differences in how the brain processes language and written expression. Children with writing difficulties may need extra help and specialised teaching methods.

What is typical?

Writing, like reading, is a developmental skill. Children develop writing skills over time.

Here’s what you might expect to see at different ages:

• By age 3: Children can usually scribble and may start to copy some letters. But are more engaged in colouring and drawing simple pictures.
• At about 5 years of age: Children begin to write some letters, especially the letters in their name. They may also write some simple words.
• By age 6: Children can usually write most letters, their name, and should be holding their pencil in a typical three-point (tripod) pencil grip.
• By age 7 (In Grade 1): Children can write short, simple sentences and begin to use simple punctuation. Handwriting and correct letter formation begin in Grade 1.
• By age 8: Children begin to write longer sentences and organise these sentences to make simple stories.
• By ages 8-9: Children’s writing becomes more organised and detailed. They start to use different writing styles for different purposes and begin to use more descriptive language.
• By ages 10-11: Children can write longer, more complex stories and essays. They begin to understand and use grammar rules more effectively and use a variety of punctuation correctly.
• By ages 12-14: Children can write in a variety of styles and for different audiences. They can revise and edit their work more effectively.

These milestones are typical, but each child is unique. Recognising these patterns can help you identify when your child might need additional support.

When should I be concerned?

There are several signs that a child may be having writing difficulties. These signs can be different based on the child’s age. Children may experience challenges with the physical act of writing (motor difficulties) or with expressing their thoughts in writing (cognitive difficulties), or both.

Motor difficulties may include:

• Difficulty forming letters: Letters may be poorly formed, inconsistently sized, or incorrectly closed.
• Spacing problems: Letters may be clustered together, spaced too far apart, or not aligned on a straight line.
• Awkward pencil grip: The child may hold the pencil awkwardly or grip it very tightly.
• Writing fatigue: Writing may be tiring and cause hand cramps or pain.

Cognitive difficulties may include:

• Spelling problems: The child may omit or add letters when spelling, misspell common words, or have difficulty learning spelling rules.
• Grammar and punctuation errors: The child may make frequent mistakes in grammar and punctuation.
• Difficulty organising ideas: The child may struggle to organise their thoughts into sentences and paragraphs. Their writing may lack structure and coherence.
• Problems with written expression: The child may have difficulty expressing their ideas clearly in writing, even if they have good ideas.
• Slow writing speed: The child may write very slowly compared to other children their age.

What can I do to help?

As a caregiver, remaining patient and supportive is key. Here are some things you can try:

1. Talk with your child’s teacher: Teachers can provide insights into your child’s specific needs and suggest strategies for support.
2. Provide a comfortable writing space: Ensure a designated, organised area with appropriate writing tools.
3. Encourage different forms of writing: Explore journals, letters, stories, or even grocery lists to make writing enjoyable.
4. Break down writing tasks: Divide large assignments into smaller, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm.
5. Use graphic organisers: Help your child organise their thoughts with mind-maps or outlines before writing.
6. Provide positive feedback: Focus on strengths and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
7. Make writing fun: Incorporate games, drawing, or storytelling to make writing more engaging.
8. Make use of early writing activity books which focus on pen control.

What kind of professional support can I seek out?

It’s normal to feel worried if your child is struggling. But help is available now. Getting help early gives the best chance for improvement.

If your child’s writing difficulties last more than a few weeks, get help from your child’s school or ask for an evaluation from a professional. Getting help early is better for your child’s writing and self-esteem.

There are several types of professionals in schools that may be able to help, including special education teachers and Occupational Therapists. These professionals, especially those who have experience with students who learn differently, can provide effective support.

Educational psychologists can assess learning difficulties and help your child build skills. They also teach caregivers how to support their child at home.

Public services are also available at your local clinic.

When looking for affordable services, it may also be helpful to explore local non-governmental organisations which offer services to families.

Local universities may offer services to the public as part of professional training programmes.

Please don’t give up if you don’t have success in your first attempts at getting help. Go back to the services listed above and look at our online list for additional resources or support. Your child is worth the effort.

Where to find more information

For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.