[senco-forum] handwriting programme

Hello Elizabeth
  I really like Speed Up.  I have tried to use it as a once a week plus homework option - it didn't work but that was because the pupil had more entrenched motor skills problems.  The pupil that it has made a big difference to is the boy who has motor skills problems plus a language-communication disorder of some kind.  We did it once a day every day for eighteen months (Year 8 and 9) and the difference in his written work is astounding.  I think the exercises are really important in improving the child's skill level.  This particular boy had the sort of writing where it was difficult to see where words started and ended.  In two weeks, your could see the words and he can now make himself understood without doing the programme.
  I don't know how it would work with a group of pupils but I think that the principle of using exercises to improve handwriting is the right way to go.  We use a form of Brain Gym with selected pupils too and many of my local primary schools have really taken on the whole idea of whole school physical activities to promote co-ordination with a lot of success.
  Amanda
  Secondary SENCO
  Cornwall

Elizabeth Haffenden <Elizabeth.Haffenden at btinternet.com> wrote:
  We have a Year 7 student who needs a handwriting programme and also some excercises for co-ordination (OT recommendations). I am looking at Speed-Up by Lois Addy. 

I would be interested to hear from anyone who has set this up in secondary school and their comments on how the programme went or is going and to what extend your have adapted/followed it.

Amanda
Secondary SENCO
Cornwall