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Dysgraphia is an impairment in the ability to write that be due to a variety of causes, including problems with words or word organization, sensory or motor coordination, and attention. Dysgraphia is also a common accompaniment of dyslexia, and it often takes an enormous social and emotional toll of young children, older students, and even adults. Unfortunately, it is among the poorest recognized learning challenges.
These days, writing is how students are supposed "show what you know. " As a result, spelling errors or sparse written output can be humiliating and embarrassing. Also, dysgraphia may give others the impression that a student is poorly educated or not smart. Bright students may be ill-advised by well-meaning people to avoid certain professions because of their poor written output.
Not surprisingly, dysgraphia is a common trigger of mood and emotional difficulties. Some children with dysgraphia become labeled as "explosive", "bipolar", or "ODD" because of how they react to their academic frustrations.
If your child has dysgraphia, proceed sensitively and carefully, and enlist professional help and advice when needed. Potential resource people may be other parents, teachers, tutors, and occupational therapists.
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