I figured out I was holding my pencil wrong in my late thirties (index on the pencil with thumb above the index knuckle,) so many lowered grades for sloppiness and not once did a teacher notice and try to correct my grip... surreal. Corrected, I have more control when I am trying to write neat, but writing continues to be hard work.
DS couldn't figure out pencil grips, but his teacher is talking with the school OT to get strategies as to what she can do to help him with writing (yes, we have an ideal teacher for him.)
Here's the thing about a change in writing quality:
If you are in a certain dysgraphic range, part of the problem is cognitive load. Rather than automatic, you are in constant, conscious control of the writing at the same level focus someone might have while playing Operation.
In fact, there are some cool studies confirming doctors have bad handwriting and surgeons even worse; but at the beginning of their medical education it is normal. My theory: part of the process of becoming a doctor and then a surgeon is practiced, intentional conscious control of their hands which breaks the automaticity a bit.
As the school load increases in complexity and the writing quantity increases, sloppiness ensues. And what is more important: thoughtful, intelligent writing or neat writing? (or getting both with typing)
