Ep. 219: Understanding Dysgraphia: Signs, Strategies, and Support for Struggling Writers with Natasha Gray

Diverse Thinking Different Learning

This week, we discuss the complexities of dyspraxia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that can greatly affect written expression. We are joined by Natasha Gray, founder of Spark Learning in the Caribbean. We unpack dyspraxia and what it is and highlight its varied types and how it often overlaps with other challenges such as ADHD and dyslexia.

Natasha explains the different ways that dyspraxia can manifest and discusses some of the warning signs such as illegible handwriting, avoidance of writing tasks, and challenges with spelling and spacing. Natasha also shares her insights into the neurological and motor components behind these struggles, and she highlights why it's important to understand each child’s individual needs.

Our conversation offers strategies and advice for parents and educators to support children with dyspraxia, with Natasha discussing the role of occupational therapy in developing fine motor skills and classroom accommodations such as typing out assignments and providing extra time for written tasks. We tackle common challenges, such as how to address fatigue and pain caused by writing, and Natasha offers some ways to build on patience and understanding in educational environments.

If you’re a parent, teacher, or someone eager to learn about supporting neurodivergent children, this episode is filled with expert advice, actionable strategies, and a compassionate approach to navigating dyspraxia!

Show Notes:

[2:59] - Dysgraphia varies widely and affects writing speed, expression, and presentation differently in each child. [4:44] - Natasha addresses dyslexic dysgraphia which impacts spelling, handwriting, and articulation despite strong verbal skills. [7:11] - Lexical dysgraphia in older children and adults stems from weak mental visualization of words. [8:43] - Writing difficulties in dysgraphia include poor spacing and dexterity, requiring customized accommodations. [11:46] - Dysgraphia often co-occurs with dyslexia, sharing sound-symbol association and written expression challenges. [12:58] - Natasha explains how children with dysgraphia often avoid writing and require patience, support, and therapy from teachers and parents. [15:30] - Natasha highlights the importance of improving children's fine motor skills in order to improve their handwriting. [17:05] - Natasha uses techniques such as practicing letter formation, strengthening exercises, and spacing tools to improve writing skills. [19:46] - Older children and adults can benefit from functional handwriting tasks, multisensory techniques, and assistive technology. [22:17] - ​​Assistive tools and accommodations can help individuals demonstrate knowledge despite writing challenges. [24:53] - Natasha asserts that writing simple notes or emails helps adults improve skills, confidence, and vocabulary. [26:38] - Practicing low-pressure writing builds important skills for students and supports struggling adults in workplaces. [29:05] - Natasha stresses the need for teachers to have empathy and to intervene with custom solutions.

Links and Related Resources:

• Episode 39: Why Fine Motor Skills Matter with Jennifer Morgan

• Episode 175: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Writing with Shanna Trombetta

• Coping with Executive Function Deficits in the Context of Writing

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Connect with Natasha:

• Spark Learning’s Website

• Spark Learning’s Instagram Page

Natasha C. Gray M.Ed., B.Sc., Dip.Ed., Cert.(Dyslexia) Board Certified Cognitive Specialist BPS Test User No. 398326

Spark Learning Suite #3 Gertz Plaza Upper Collymore Rock St. Michael Barbados Phone:[phone] Email: [e-mail]