Please look at my "Tips for Parents" talk at:

http://www.dystalk.com/talks/40-practical-advice-on-handwriting

To be able to write in a clear and neat style is important. People will find it difficult to reach their true potential if they have not gained a good mastery of this skill. Students learn to write, move from print to joined writing and progress to writing with fountain pens, during hourly handwriting sessions.

I encourage the use of a cursive script for several reasons, amongst which are:

• It aids the acquisition of reading as it encourages children to link blends, digraphs and prefixes etc. and see the whole word rather than a string of letters.
• Cursive script encourages the correct direction of writing across each page and helps stop common letter reversals such b and d.
• It is a faster form of writing. This assists students to gain the speed of 17-23 words a minute needed in GCSE examinations more easily.

However, I do respond to individual needs and, following an initial assessment, will devise an appropriate, individual programme for each pupil. I use a variety of resources to encourage correct sitting position and pencil grip. I have a large selection of left, and right-handed, fountain pens to enable students to choose a nib that is compatible with their writing style.

I will work with children with dyspraxia or DCD on their fine motor and writing skills. I am happy to work in conjunction with occupational therapists in this area. Please go to Dyspraxia for more information.

I undertake handwriting assessments to support students applying for extra time in examinations and write supporting statements for current students applying for statements.

I am a committee member of the National Handwriting Association.

I am happy to visit Schools.