Pencil Grip and Autism

By sandra.caplesc…, 5 August, 2022
Child drawing.

Messy writing is every teacher's worst nightmare. However, students can't avoid writing. They spend a lot of time doing writing tasks, so having a pencil grasp is essential when doing schoolwork. While some people hold their pencils in different ways, they can still write legibly.

So is there a correct way to hold a pencil?

There are a lot of factors that influence the development of a proper pencil grip. A good pencil grip gives the child more control, reduces hand fatigue, and improves handwriting. However, many children can be fussy when learning how to write, especially if they can't hold their pencil in the right way. In this situation, it's best to introduce them to different pencil grips.

Furthermore, children find it challenging to hold pens due to the excessive use of technology. Holding a pencil requires strong finger muscle control to avoid discomfort or produce legible writing.

In the case of children with autism, parents, teachers, and therapists have noticed minor difficulties with handwriting skills. Some autistic children can't write as well as their neurotypical peers. Struggling with handwriting can affect a child's academic performance; however, it being a physical limitation makes it difficult to address. While some children need adjustments, others can suffer from dyspraxia or dysgraphia, sensory processing disorders, or hand injuries.

The result of writing mistakes can frustrate a child, and, in the end, the child can dislike the writing task. Parents may also feel frustrated as they try to teach an essential skill for independent living.

The good news is that there are many ways to improve handwriting skills. Here are a few tips to get you started.

What Is a Pencil Grip?

A pencil grip is an integral part of handwriting. Most children naturally develop a pencil grip when they start drawing. During this stage, it's important to let the child choose which tool he's most comfortable with when writing.

An excellent way to hold a pencil is the dynamic tripod. This means that the thumb, index, and middle fingers work together to allow small but coordinated movements. Here are some wrong ways to hold a pencil:

  • Thumb-wrap grasp: The thumb is used to stabilize the pen rather than assist with movements.
  • Five-finger grasp: The little finger primarily initiates the movement.
  • Upright tripod grasp: The child holds the pencil low and does not rest between thumb and finger.

Best Pencil Grips

There is a variety of pencil grips that your child can use.

Mlife Pencil Grips

Best loved by Amazon buyers; these pencil grips have thousands of 5-star reviews. They can fit any writing tool, such as markers, pencils, crayons, etc. The grips come in five colors, and it's made from silicone, safe from toxic substances.

Firesara Pencil Grips

This pencil grip fixes five fingers for handwriting. They are designed to be easier and more comfortable for kids to hold. Made from high-grade safety material, the pencil grip is non-toxic, super soft, and odorless. Reviews say the grip helped kids correctly position their middle fingers under the pencil.

Jarlink Pencil Grips

Some children with autism might feel reluctant to use pencil grips because it makes them look different from other children. Jarlink offers cute designs that will reward the child instead. The grips are made from safe silicone that’s also environmentally friendly.

The Pencil Grip

This ergonomic grip benefits both lefties and righties—and therapists recommend it. The design fits on pencils, crayons, and other drawing or writing tools. It has a squishy grip for maximum comfort and control.

Twist ‘N Write

While not precisely a pencil grip, this pen is designed to fit small hands. It offers a unique design, and the pencils will last a long time since the leads are replaceable. They come in four assorted colors and help kids learn to write more efficiently. The best part is that the leads can be refilled, so it should last a long time.

Really Good Stuff Spaceman Set

Spacing is also essential when it comes to improving handwriting. So this "spaceman" helps children measure the proper amount of distance between each word. The set has 30 pieces, so it should be enough for every student.

Lvcky Foam Pencil Grips

Each pencil grip has several ridged grooves to prevent your child’s fingers from slipping. They also help the child feel more relaxed when writing. The pencil grip is small and light, so it does not break easily. It’s also convenient to carry.

Egg Pencil Grip

The design helps relieve calluses, sores, and discomfort at school, work, or at home. The high-quality and egg-shaped pencil grips fit pens, pencils, and crayons. They help improve control and comfort while drawing or writing. The grips come in twelve cute colors that match your child's style.

JuneLsy Pencil Grip 

Your children will fall in love with their writing after using the JuneLsy pencil grip. It's easy to use and fits both lefties and righties. The pencil grip has a unique design, and comes in various colors. It's also comfortable and breathable. 

Tips for Improving Writing

Here are some tips for a functional pencil grasp. If you are unsure, then talk to your child's occupational therapist for more advice.

Tune Fine Motor Skills

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often lack the fine motor skills necessary to write. Therapy putties or even simple hand exercisers can build hand strength as they knead and squeeze during play. You can also use modeling clay, safety scissors, and lacing beads to practice fine motor skills.

Try having your child engage in a few finger exercises before writing to boost performance and self-confidence.

Sensory Scribbles

Sensory difficulties can also lead to poor handwriting skills. These children struggle with knowing how much pressure to use or the best way to grip a pencil. A weighted pencil grip provides tactile and pressure-related guidance to stabilize a kid's hold. With a visual aid such as a workbook, children can develop the muscle memory needed to transition from grips.

You can also ask your child to write words in modeling clay and build adequate muscle memory.

Be Flexible

There is no magic formula for unlocking better handwriting skills. Parents and teachers must go with each child's uniqueness to find the best way to tackle handwriting challenges. You need to be willing to change tactics when things are not working.

For example, you can break big tasks into smaller ones or keep them specific to reduce a student's stress levels. In turn, this will help them focus. You can also allow the child to write in a comfortable style to gain the necessary confidence. You can use any tool, from pencils to colored pencils to chalk.

Have Realistic Expectations

Some studies point to autistic children with handwriting issues carrying some of these problems into adulthood or adolescence. While exercises and practice help, some issues will always remain with them.

It’s important to celebrate and build on victories and don’t mind the setbacks. Writing is a good form of communication, so your main goal is to help your child communicate as clearly as possible. With some patience, you can achieve anything.