Pencil Grasps

Pencil grasp is directly related to handwriting speed and legibility. A mature grasp is more efficient and less fatiguing. It involves good distal hold and control on the pen or pencil, which requires the development of adequate intrinsic strength and in-hand manipulation skills.

AGE EXPECTATIONS

Note:

Static = movements initiate from larger joints of the arm (e.g. shoulder and elbow), fingers remain static, and hand moves as one unit
Dynamic = movements initiated from fingers and wrist

Hand dominance

IMMATURE GRASP PATTERNS

Palmar Supinate

Digital Pronate

FUNCTIONAL GRASPS

Tripod

Quadrupod

Lateral quadrupod/thumb wrap

Lateral tripod/thumb wrap

Ergonomic/adapted tripod

Hyperextended index grasp

NONFUNCTIONAL GRASPS

Thumb tuck

Distal 5-finger/gamer/fluted/index grip

Interdigital grasp

Pinch grasp

IF DIFFICULTY WITH PENCIL GRASP SEESM TO BE DUE TO...

Core postural strength and stability try

- - Yoga
  - One-legged balances
  - Lying on stomach, resting on elbows
  - “Wobbly” stepping stone games (e.g. cushions, air discs)

Wrist stability try

- - Use of vertical surface (mirror, wall, window, etc.)
  - Sloped surfaces (slanted desks)

Hand strengthening try

Palmar arches try

- - Pull theraputty apart with finger tips
  - Place pegs, coins, etc. into playdough/putty
  - Use “Mr. Mouth” and manipulatives

Separation of two sides of hand try

Shoulder and upper arm stability try

Thumb opposition try

- - Use tweezers to pick up small items
  - Flick games → pom poms, cotton balls, scrunched up paper, etc.
  - Threading small beads

HELPFUL LINKS

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