Thanks Kat for mentioning Occupational therapy (OT).  We really are more
than handwriting specialists in the school system and if he has an IEP this
would be a good time to get you assistive technology team on board with
recommendations.  Alphasmarts are great, portable, lightweight and very
durable, can be hooked up to a regular printer.  Keep up with printing, it
is still the fastest way to sign for a credit card, etc.  Utilize technology
for long tasks, printing for short tasks.

Beth t the OT

-----Original Message-----
From: St. John's University Cerebral Palsy List
Subject: Re: IEP goals

use technology to go on and progress, but, spend a bit of time to learn to
print just to get able to do it.
never actually give up, but, keep things in properspective. technology will
make writing not totally important. '

--- Dianne Adams <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> I'm a lurker, too.  But now I'd like your opinions on something.
>
> My 6 year old, Evan, has high tone and spasticity throughout his body,
> but his right hand seems pretty good, at least in comparison to his
> other extremities.
>  He's been trying to learn to write for about 2.5 years.  He can write
> his first name, not quite legibly, in letters about 3/4 inch high.  He
> cannot write well enough to take spelling tests, arithmetic, or
> compose stories (we handle these now by dictation, writing his oral
> answers with a highlighter, and having him trace the letters and
> numbers).
>
> Is it time to throw in the towel on the printing, and look into an
> alphasmart or other technology?  Is being unable to jot down a phone
> number or write a check a serious enough issue that it's worth
> continuing to pursue?  He needs extra help with language and math,
> already, and there are only so many directions you can go at once, in
> a 6 hour school day.  We're having another IEP in January, and I'd be
> interested in your opinions.
>
> Regards,
> Dianne