Dysgraphia Assessment

What Is Dysgraphia?

Dysgraphia is a specific learning disability in writing that affects a person’s ability to write clearly and coherently. It effects a child’s letter writing by hand, which can interfere with their learning how to spell words in writing and the speed and ease at which they write.  If your child has dysgraphia, they may find it hard to space their words, form letters, produce written work that reflects their understanding, or organize their ideas on paper. Their difficulties are not because they aren’t trying or lack intelligence; it is a neurologically based learning difficulty that makes it harder for them to utilize fine motor skills or language processing. 

Generally, there are two main categories of dysgraphia: language based and motor/spatial based. Some kids have one or the other, and some kids have both. A thorough dysgraphia assessment can decipher which category they fall under.  While the child or adult may have wonderful ideas and creative thinking, dysgraphia prevents them from translating their creative thinking into hand-written work.

An early assessment for dysgraphia can make a huge difference in supporting a child to learn skills to improve written output, manage emotions like frustration, and encourage academic progress. 

Since learning difficulties can sometimes co-occur, a comprehensive evaluation may also include a Dyslexia Assessment for reading challenges or a Dyscalculia Assessment to identify difficulties with numbers and mathematical reasoning.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Dysgraphia appears differently depending on age, but it typically affects the mechanics of writing as well as written expression. 

In Children

• Slow or effortful writing that requires significant concentration
• Frequent spelling mistakes, even with strong reading skills
• Poor or inconsistent handwriting, spacing, or letter formation
• Difficulty learning to write letters or numbers correctly
• Trouble copying from the board or completing written tasks on time
• Avoidance of drawing, colouring, or fine-motor activities

In Older Students and Adults

• Written work that is brief, incomplete, or far below b ability
• Reliance on typing, dictation, or verbal responses to get ideas out
• Writing that is messy, hard to read, or inconsistent in size and spacing
• Difficulty organizing ideas into clear, structured paragraphs
• Slow note-taking or fatigue during longer writing tasks
• Strong verbal explanations but difficulty expressing thoughts in writing

Emotional and Behavioural Indicators

• Frustration or anxiety around writing tasks
• Avoidance of homework or assignments that require writing
• Feelings of embarrassment when handwriting is compared to peers

Why a Dysgraphia Assessment Matters

Formal dysgraphia testing will measure the gap between thinking and writing and explore the root cause of these difficulties. It can help differentiate dysgraphia from a lack of practice or effort or attentional difficulties. 

At ClearMinds, our reports are detailed and guide schools and parents in detail to  best support their child and incorporate useful targeted strategies within their learning plans and at home.

Our Dysgraphia Assessment Process

Our dysgraphia writing assessment is structured, supportive, and designed to clearly identify the underlying causes of the writing challenges.

Initial Consultation: the first meeting is an interview with the parent including information about the child’s developmental history, academic progress, and behavior. 

Cognitive & Motor Skills Evaluation: Standardized tests assess cognitive abilities, fine-motor coordination, visual–motor integration, and the mechanical processes involved in writing.

Writing & Spelling Assessment: We analyse handwriting, spacing, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and how well ideas are organised in written form.

Comprehensive Report: Findings are interpreted and presented in a detailed report covering strengths, challenges, diagnostic impressions, and detailed recommendations and school accommodations. 

Feedback Session: Personalized recommendations for are outlined for home, school, and therapy to support the child's writing capacities..

Who Can Benefit

You should consider a dysgraphia private assessment if your child struggles with handwriting, spelling, or written task. Similarly, adults who find written communication tiring, slow, and struggle to express ideas on paper can benefit from a dysgraphia assessment for adults.

Outcomes and Recommendations

After an assessment for dysgraphia, there is a formal report that includes personalized recommendations and strategies to improve handwriting, spelling, and written output. It can include recommendations like extra time, assistive technology, etc. 

Recommendations can also include strategies to emotionally support the child, build resilience, and practical tips for parent/teacher to motivate and engage the child. 

Understanding your child’s writing challenges is the first step toward empowering learning and confidence.

Contact a member of our team at +971-4-557-6220 to schedule an appointment. You can also email us at info@clearmindscenter.com or drop us a line through our online contact form.