What classroom accommodations can help my child with writing?

Here are some common accommodations for helping kids with writing:

• Using alternative writing utensils, such as markers or smaller pencils
• Skipping lines on the paper
• Highlighting areas on the worksheet that need to be filled in
• Allowing extra test time
• Offering an option to respond to questions orally or using speech-to-text technology
• Presenting a model on the screen and on a handout in front of the student
• Allowing time for brain breaks to alleviate stress and excess energy

You can find more example accommodations in our full article Writing and Kids with Disabilities.

In addition, all kinds of assistive technology options exist, ranging from universal tools for everyone, such as Grammarly, to specific apps like Dragon, a dictation software that helps those with dyspraxia speak their words into writing. With no shortage of options, writing is in some ways more accessible than ever before.

Multiple assistive technology options can make writing possible and even enjoyable for children to learn. It’s important to remember that some of the apps available are designed specifically for accessibility, and some are designed to teach users content or skills (instructional technology). For example, a text-to-speech app reads words out loud, which allows the user to access the information but doesn’t in and of itself instruct the user. However, an app like Writing Wizard makes typing accessible to kids with a wireless keyboard and specifically designed programs while also teaching kids to type. Many apps do both. It’s also important to remember the importance of including training for the student and all IEP members when AT is added to the IEP.

For plenty of ideas, see our full article Assistive Technology (AT) for Writing.