dysgraphia

There is no special education category for students with dysgraphia;[2] in the United States, The National Center for Learning Disabilities suggests that children with dysgraphia be handled in a case-by-case manner with an Individualized Education Program, or provided individual accommodation to provide alternative ways of submitting work and modify tasks to avoid the area of weakness.[5] Students with dysgraphia often cannot complete written assignments that are legible, appropriate in length and content, or within given time.[2] It is suggested that students with dysgraphia receive specialized instructions that are appropriate for them, this means that each set of instructions may be different for each child. Children will mostly benefit from explicit and comprehensive instructions, help translating across multiple levels of language, and review and revision of assignments or writing methods.[7] Direct, explicit instruction on letter formation, and guided practice will help students achieve automatic handwriting performance before they use letters to write words, phrases, and sentences.[2] Some older children may benefit from the use of a personal computer, or a laptop in class so that they do not have to deal with the frustration of falling behind their peers. [Wikipedia]

[PattyChenDailey]

Hi Jennifer.  I am a School Psychologist.  Just wanted to let you know that just because your son does not cognitive deficits, it does not mean that he cannot be eligible for special education services.  If his response to interventions in the general education environment has been unsuccessful, then the Team that determines special education eligibility can certainly decide to qualify him for special education services.  And, specifically, it sounds like your son with have a Specific Learning Disability in written language.  Also, he may benefit from a 504 Plan (if your school continues to determine that he is not eligible for special education), which would afford him accommodations in the classroom and during state and district testing situations.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to let me know.  I'd be happy to help you navigate the very confusing world of special education!  Patty  

[janicemartinez]

Hi Jennifer, .
I just saw your video and cried my eyes out.  I have a 10 yr old boy who is struggling.   Thank you so much for your video.  I to feel the same way like I have to fight for him.  thanks for the encouragement..

[oisinoriordan]

I am dysgraphic and I was dyspraxic I also have one of the highest iq's for someone my age

[dvddesignSAMPLE]

We are still trying. Evaluation has been done. APPARENTLY the issue is not COGNITIVE so he does NOT qualify for an IEP. Which was stated as a strong possibility during the meeting prior to the eval. Even still, I WAS SHOCKED in the least. He scored in the 8th percentile for writing fluency. Yes, there are factors that play into those results, such as avoidance tactics. Then we ask ourselves, why is he avoiding writing?