Allowing work to be completed by computer word processing helps the student use staging more efficiently while also bypassing the mechanical difficulties of letter form and space. It is unfair and counterproductive to make a student with writing problems stay in for recess to finish work. These children need more movement time, not less. Keyboarding The most efficient compensation for any student who struggles with basic letter form and use of spaces to develop efficient word processing skills. Specific multisensory strategies designed for dysgraphic students are useful for any student who needs help developing appropriate letter form and automatic motor movements.
Students are able to learn keyboarding skills at a very young age.
However, keyboarding development requires practice and many students complain that the practice is especially boring. This can be a problem because consistency and frequency of practice are very important in developing automaticity. Consequently, it is useful to have the student practice keyboarding on a daily basis, but only for very short period of time each day. In early elementary, the student may practice only five to ten minutes a night. In upper elementary, the practice sessions maybe 10 to 15 minutes a night.