Oftentimes individuals with
developmental disabilities have fine or gross motor delays. Therefore, writing
can be a laborious task as gripping a pencil and writing legibly may be
difficult. To combat this challenge an occupational therapist may offer an
individual a diverse series of pencil grips depending on their needs and
specific disability. Examples of some disabilities that may benefit from using
a pencil grip include but are not limited to, dysgraphia, hypermobility,
hypotonia, arthritis, and autism. However, not all with fine motor difficulties
may choose to use or enjoy using pencil grips
Every individual has their own
preference on which grip works best for them. They come in a variety of shapes,
colors, sizes, and materials. Usually they are inexpensive with a price tag not
exceeding $3 dollars. Some of the pencil grips include but are not limited to
the…
·
Claw- Allows the user to put
their fingers in a tripod grasp by placing fingers in the cups.
· Pinch Grip- Provides comfort and support. Helps the writer put
their fingers in the proper aliment simply making use of the indents on the
grip.
· Stetro- Has three contours to place fingers in an efficient
position. It has little support. Many people use it incorrectly.
· Grotto- A ridged grip that prevents displacement of fingers. This
can be uncomfortable to some people.
· Crossover- Has wings that stop an individual from crossing their
thumb & index finger when writing Soft and rubbery to the touch.
· Twist N’ Write- Y shaped lead pencil that teaches children proper
finger placement. To write the child must put their index finger, and then
their thumb and middle finger through the sides.
· Monkey- Stabilizes the thumb and index finger on the sides of the
pencil while the rest of the fingers hold the monkey’s tail.
· Handi Writer- Supports wrist while writing.
· Egg
grip- Can be used for individuals with arthritis as it allows them to use a
more cylindrical grasp.
Occupational therapist often
see their clients misplace their fingers on a pencil or just press too hard. In
this predicament, they have the option to use a pen or mechanical pencil. A
mechanical pencil trains the individual to not press so hard because the tip will
break. On the other hand, a pen provides fluidity for letter/word formation.
Unlike a regular pencil, a pen does not offer resistance, therefore requiring
less control and pressure. Whereas this may be helpful for some, others may
require a pencil which provides them with more feedback.
Prior to writing this blog I
intentionally chose to use the pencil grips for research purposes. However, I
found them to be quite uncomfortable to use. That being said, with years of
experience I know how to use a pencil without a grip adequately. Though I can
see how they would facilitate individuals with daily writing tasks.
For further information or
inquires please feel free to contact me at techblogspot89@gmail.com.
