Benefits of Writing on a Vertical Surface
Did you know that having your child write on a vertical surface can target many underlying skills needed for handwriting? Read more and Check out the benefits below!
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When a child writes on a vertical surface, it puts their wrist in an extended position. This provides improved stability in order to use an appropriate pencil grasp.
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Writing and drawing on a vertical surface improves shoulder, wrist, and hand strength because your child will be working against gravity.
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When writing on a vertical surface, it requires your child to cross midline to reach all areas of the paper.
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To target core strength, have your child kneel or sit on an exercise ball in front of their paper taped onto the wall instead of having them sit on a chair. Strengthening the core helps improve stability needed to engage in fine motor tasks!
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Having your child hold their paper against a vertical surface with their non-dominant hand while writing with their dominant hand improves their ability to use both hands together.
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Using whiteboards and chalkboards on a vertical surface can provide a fun alternative to writing on paper and keep children motivated to engage in handwriting activities.
Written by Katelyn MS, OTR/L