Predicting Handwriting Using Reading, Fine Motor and Visual Motor Skills

The Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention has published research on predicting handwriting performance in kindergarteners using reading, fine motor and visual motor measures.

During the second semester of kindergarten, 48 students were assessed and the following results were recorded:

1.  significant correlations were found between reading, handwriting, fine-motor, and visual-motor measures.

2.  students in the At Risk reading group performed significantly lower in handwriting, fine-motor, and visual-motor measures than students in the At Grade Level–reading group

3.  Predictors of alphabet writing included student age, name writing, and initial sound fluency

4.  Predictors of name writing included student age, alphabet writing, and visual-motor integration tests.

Reference:  Gloria Frolek Clark, Gayle Luze . Predicting Handwriting Performance in Kindergarteners Using Reading, Fine-Motor, and Visual-Motor Measures. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention.  Vol. 7, Iss.  1, 2014

Check out this download to provide visual reminders for proper letter formation:  Classroom Wall Cards, Flash Cards, Alphabet Strips and Name Plates Handwriting with Tears® and/or Zaner-Bloser® Style